Stephen Clark Peck I

 Farrar Funeral Home Jefferson City

Stephen Clark Peck, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, entered the next season of life on January 18, 2025, at Alive Hospice in Nashville, Tennessee. Born on Saturday, October 31, 1936, in Jefferson City, Tennessee, to Eugene Ernest and Willie Ophelia Lowe Peck, Steve lived a life marked by quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and boundless love. Steve grew up in Jefferson City, where he attended Nelson Merry School and graduated as class salutatorian. A gifted student and athlete, he earned a scholarship to Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where he excelled in both academics and athletics as a member of the basketball and baseball teams. He graduated in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science degree and a passion for education. After graduation, Steve relocated to Cleveland, Ohio, where he began his career as a mathematics teacher at Alexander Hamilton Middle School. In 1959, he married his sweetheart of three years, Arlene Aurora Bell, whom he met during her first year at Stillman College. The couple began their life together in Cleveland, where they welcomed their first child, Stephen II, in 1961. In 1967, Steve moved his growing family to Jefferson City, Tennessee, when he accepted his dream job with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) as a Programmer/Analyst. While at TVA, he furthered his education by studying Computer Technology at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. Steve worked tirelessly for 35 years at TVA, retiring in 1992, though his dedication to his work led him to return part-time after retirement. Steve and Arlene built a loving home in Jefferson City, where they raised their children, Stephen II and Carolyn, alongside Michael. Known for his quiet and private demeanor, Steve was a pillar of strength and wisdom to his family and community. A member of Boyd Chapel United Methodist Church, he led by example, teaching his children and grandchildren the importance of hard work, kindness, and humility. Steve’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements and his love for his family. He was a mentor to countless students, offering guidance in mathematics and life lessons that shaped their futures. He was a beloved neighbor, often rewarding the children next door for their academic achievements and helping others in need. A man of many talents, Steve enjoyed music, playing the trumpet and trombone in high school, and sports, especially basketball. He had a passion for fishing, a skill he learned from his uncle and passed down to his children and grandchildren. Despite his quiet nature, he was known for his love of Halloween, a nod to his October 31st birthday, and his fondness for sharing candy—particularly Snickers—with trick-or-treaters and loved ones alike. Steve’s impact on those who knew him is immeasurable. His grandchildren remember him as the “best Papa ever,” a man whose gentle spirit and unconditional love created cherished memories. His children recall a father who led with kindness and supported them unconditionally, while his friends and extended family admired his steadfast dedication to the people he cared for. Steve is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Arlene Aurora Bell Peck; his children, Stephen Clark Peck II (Seana Staley), Carolyn Arlene Peck O’Brien (James O’Brien), and Michael Eugene Peck (Rachel Marzouca); and his grandchildren, Sarah Livingston Peck-Quilang (Philip Quilang), Stephen Clark Peck III, Alexander Luke Peck, Carly Marie Peck, Colin Michael Peck, and Cody Michael Peck. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Jean Peck Dean (the late James Edward Dean), his brother, Joseph Michael Peck, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and devoted friends. A celebration of Steve’s life will be held on January 23, 2025, at Farrar Funeral Home in Jefferson City, Tennessee. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 12:00 p.m. and a procession to Westview Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. Steve Peck’s life was a testament to the power of quiet strength, enduring love, and selfless service. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and friendship that will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Alive Hospice House, 1710 Patterson Street, Nashville, TN 37203, Jefferson County Cancer Society, c/o Robbie Pinkerton, 1480 Royal Drive, Jefferson City, TN 37760, or Smoky Mountain Home Health and Hospice, 222 Heritage Road, Newport, TN 37821.

Arrangements by Farrar Funeral Home in Jefferson City, TN