Charles Mervin Peterson

Charles Mervin Peterson Jr “Pete” passed away on October 30th, 2025, in Newton NC at the age of ninety-nine. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Doris Peterson. He is survived by his son Glenn Peterson and his wife Lee, Daughter Diane McNeely and her husband William, and Grandson William McNeely and his wife Heather.

Charles was born May 7th, 1926, and grew up in Jeffersonville, NY. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the US Navy serving two years during World War II. After his service he attended Courtland State College earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education. He started his career teaching PE at Liberty High School in Liberty NY where he coached the HS baseball team to a championship. He went on to enroll in the Duke University Physical Therapy school. In 1952 he married Doris Allen of New Albany Pennsylvania. After working at Rex Hospital, he opened his own physical therapy office on Clark Ave in Raleigh. He would go on to practice for various home health agencies retiring after 43 years as an RPT.

Charles was a charter member of Hudson Memorial Presbyterian Church on Six Forks Rd and spent time volunteering at the church. He was an avid musician playing saxophone and clarinet for the Shrine band and the Little German Band. He loved to play bridge and was a loyal fan of Duke University athletic teams.

A celebration of life service will be on Friday, November 7th at 2:00pm at Hudson Memorial Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the church.