Jean Davies Peters

Jean Davies Peters, 94, of Nokomis, Florida, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 16, 2025.

Jean was born on January 25, 1931, in Madison, Wisconsin. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1952 with a degree in Latin and minors in Political Science and French. While at UW-Madison, she met and married the love of her life, Farnsley "Pete" Peters. Together, they built a full and adventurous life, moving often as Farnsley pursued his career in the Chamber of Commerce, with director roles in Madison, Aurora and Rockford, Illinois, Cincinnati, Ohio, and finally Des Moines, Iowa, where he served as Executive Director of the Iowa Manufacturer's Association.

No matter where life took them, Jean poured herself into her family, her friends, and her community. She was an accomplished hostess who delighted in themed dinner parties, a skilled quilter, a passionate cook known especially for her english muffins, and an enthusiastic traveler who loved to see the world.

In every community she called home, she became deeply involved in local organizations - libraries, churches, PEO, and, especially, symphonies. These volunteer experiences led her to the Venice Symphony Orchestra, where she became Executive Director in 1990. For over two decades, Jean devoted herself to growing and leading the symphony, single-handedly running all aspects of the organization from her home office, including scheduling, staffing, ticket sales, and publicity.

In 1990, a woman stopped her on Venice Avenue and asked, "Are you the Symphony Lady?" From then until her retirement in 2012, Jean was proud to be known as "The Symphony Lady."

Jean is survived by her daughter Susan Peters (Patrick Brugh), her son David Peters, her grandsons Miles Brugh (Kate McKenzie), Griffin Brugh (Abbey), Derrik Peters, and many nieces and nephews, whom she adored. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Farnsley.

Above all, Jean will be remembered for her generosity, her warmth, and the joy she brought to others - whether through music, food, card games, or the countless ways she gave her time and talents to her community.

A funeral service will be held at Venice Presbyterian Church on Saturday, October 11th at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Venice Presbyterian Church in honor of Jean's life and legacy.