Robert Earl Peele

Robert Earl Peele, age 83, of New Bern, passed away on Saturday, January 18, 2025. Robert was the son of the late John Henry and Elizabeth McDaniel Peele of Pitt County.

Robert grew up on a farm in the Pactolus community of Pitt County and attended Stoke-Pactolus High School. Robert attended classes at East Carolina University and joined the U.S. Postal Service in 1962, serving initially as a clerk, then postmaster, at the Stokes, N.C. post office. Robert subsequently served as a state postal inspector from 1970-1972, then was selected in 1972 to serve as postmaster in Southern Pines, N.C. In 1980 Robert was selected to serve as president of the N.C. Postmasters Association and also postmaster in New Bern, NC, where he served until his retirement in 1997. Robert also served honorably in the Shriners after his induction in 1988.

After retirement Robert briefly managed a small business then served as a property manager in Atlantic Beach. He retired for good in 2007 and enjoyed the remainder of his years hosting family and friends for steamed oysters, herring fry’s, and BBQ.

Robert is survived by his wife, Linda Peele, his brother Gene Peele, his sons John Peele and Greg Peele, his daughters Candace Peele and Tracey Casey, and nine grandchildren, who lovingly named him “Big Daddy.” He was preceded in death by his brothers Dan Wynne, James Wynne, George Wynne, and Billy Wynne, and his grandson, Brian Peele.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Towarnicky, Dr. Ashish, Dr. Bender, Dr. Greene, and the ICU staff at Carolina East Medical Center.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, February 1st, from 3-5 pm at Cotten Funeral Home, at 2201 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC 28560. Interment will be at a later date with family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Parkinson’s Disease Foundation or to the Shriners' Hospital.

Cotten Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Robert Earl Peele.