James "Pete" R. Peters

Pete will be deeply, achingly missed. He had that rare light—an easy charm, a spark of mischief, and a heart that drew people in wherever he went. There was something about him that made you feel seen, like you mattered. And you did—to him.

He was a man of many gifts: a fearless adventurer, a skilled woodsman, and a builder not just of homes, but of dreams. The Big Woods of Northern Maine were his sacred ground, where he felt most alive. With a sharp eye and a quiet instinct passed down from his father, Donnie, Pete had a knack for finding just the right land, just the right moment, and making it all come together.

He made people laugh—really laugh. His quick wit could cut through any gloom, and his humor stayed with you like a favorite story told around a campfire. Even as cancer tried to dim his light, Pete’s faith grew brighter. He carried it not with fanfare, but with peace and quiet courage that moved those around him.

To Hanis—his partner, his love, his angel here on earth—thank you. Your fierce devotion and tender care were the truest kind of love. You walked beside him through every storm, and held his hand all the way home.

Pete leaves behind his loving sister Michelle Butler; nephews Tyler and Jesse; his cherished uncles and aunts—Clayton Peters, Joe, Charlotte, Joyce, Gail, Harry, Joan, and Terry Cushman—and a wide circle of cousins, friends, and kindred spirits who will never forget him.

He may be gone from our sight, but his soul lives on—in every tree he climbed, every deal he struck, every story he told, and every heart he touched.

You are invited to a time of visitation on July 30th from 4:00 to 7:00pm with Words of Remembrance at 6:00pm at Jones, Rich & Barnes Funeral Home, 199 Woodford St, Portland. A Celebration of Life will take place on July 31 at Eastpoint Church in South Portland at 4:00 PM followed by a reception at 5:30pm.

You may offer your condolences or share your fond memories of Pete at www.jonesrichandbarnes.com

Livestream available at: https://www.thepoint.community/live/