Valor Yona Peterson

Valor Yona Peterson, 7 months, passed away on September 30, 2025, in Neosho, Missouri. He was born on February 12, 2025, in Joplin, Missouri to Byron Peterson and Ashton Reynolds. Valor's time on earth was brief, yet his impact was profound and lasting. His bright blue eyes reflected the beauty of the sky, and his presence was a constant reminder of life's preciousness.

Valor's family fondly remembers him as a healthy and sweet baby who brought laughter and happiness into their lives. Despite his seriousness, Valor's smile was contagious and could light up any room. His fascination with his big sister was evident to all who knew him. Valor's adoration for her was unmistakable, and his eyes would follow her every move with unwavering attention and love. Their bond was a beautiful testament to the purity and strength of sibling relationships, even at such a tender age.

Valor is survived by his parents, Byron Peterson and Ashton Reynolds; sister, Melodie Peterson; grandparents, Donald and Tammy Peterson; Douglas and Stephanie (Mimi) Alexius, Leroy and Sharon Lake; great- grandparents, Tonya Lake, Walter and Barbara Bliss; great- great grandparents, Bob and Carolyn Adotta; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

We take comfort in knowing that Valor has been welcomed into Heaven by the loving arms of Jesus and his Great Grandma, Annabelle. He is also preceded in death by grandfather, Tony Lopes, Great- Grandfather Mark Reynolds; Great- Great grandparents, Jim and Loretta Lane; and cousins, David Reynolds and Dustin Denney.

A memorial service is planned for Sunday, October 5, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. at Schermerhorn Park in Galena, Kansas with a lantern release at 7:30 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Valor's Final Expenses in care of the mortuary, or to Honor & Hope, to help with other local families putting their baby to rest.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Parker Mortuary in Joplin, MO