Mary Joy Peterson

Mary Joy Peterson (91) passed away peacefully on 29 January in her apartment at the Renaissance in Sun Lakes, AZ. She was born in Joliet, Illinois to Vivian and Reuben Nelson but raised her family in Japan and Germany while working for the Department of Defense Schools. She is preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Donald Peterson. Her children, Jill Brown and Jackie Pope, and their husbands survive her. She also leaves behind five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Joy had a long and distinguished career as a Kindergarten teacher, along with being a competent bridge player and pianist. She was known as an outstanding educator and a wonderful human being who had a genuine concern and sensitivity for students, parents, and staff. She and her husband Donald moved to AZ when they retired. After the loss of her husband she moved to Sun Lakes. Joy was a great lady who handled all her losses as she declined without complaint, maintained her sense of humor and gratitude. For all of us who loved her, we can be comforted by the fact that she lived fully, declined gracefully, and died peacefully. A celebration of her life will be held at the Renaissance this Thursday (2/1) at 3:00 p.m.