Sam Peller

Mr. Peller was born July 5, 1918 in New York City where he spent most of his life until moving South in 1991. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Rose Goodman Peller. Survivors include his children, Mrs. Nancy (and Bruce) Matzner of Great Neck, Long Island, and Dr. Jeffrey (and Shelly) Peller of Rome, Georgia. Survivors also include grandchildren Adam Peller of Asheville, NC; Rachel Peller of Atlanta, GA; Andrew (and LeeRay Costa) Matzner of Roanoke, VA; Gregg (and Jennifer) Matzner of Philadelphia, PA; and great grandchildren, Tallulah, Dahlia, and Naomi Matzner.

Although trained as a commercial artist, Mr. Peller spent his working years in the diamond industry, initially as a diamond cutter and then as a diamond broker. He maintained his artistic interests and creativity throughout his life, and he never lost his desire to sell, gift or donate his various pieces of artwork.

Mr. Peller was an active member of the Diamond Dealers' Club in NYC, B'nai B'rith, and Rodeph Sholom Congregation in Rome. For many years, Mr. and Mrs. Peller, and later just Sam, hosted a weekly Jewish study group in their home with interfaith community members. Mr. Peller was an avid lover and supporter of the fine arts in Rome, with opera and and classical music his two favorites. In past years, he was known to have written numerous letters to the editor of the Rome News Tribune singing the praises of local artists and performers and urging support and attendance at many plays, concerts and recitals. He frequently praised local talent as being comparable to the performers on Broadway or at Lincoln Center.

Funeral services, led by Rabbi Judith Beiner, were held graveside, Sunday, December 16th, 1:00 PM, at the Jewish Cemetery on Mt. Aventine. The family will receive friends at the residence, 206 Sherwood Road, following the funeral service. Friends are invited to join the family as they observe the shiva (mourning) period, Monday through Thursday evenings this week, at the home of Jeffrey and Shelly Peller.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Rodeph Sholom Congregation, P.O. Box 425, Rome, GA 30162-0425, or to your favorite arts organization. Daniels Funeral Home has charge of the arrangements.