
He was a father, a husband, a brother, a devoted church member, a professor for many years at Florida State University, and above all, a loving denizen of planet earth. He had lived in Tallahassee for the past 50 years.
Peter was born in Amherst, Massachusetts on June 16, 1942. He was raised in many parts of the United States, following his pastor father around to different congregations with his mother and two sisters. He attended undergrad at Amherst College, then went on to serve in the Peace Corps and work in Niger and Mali, where he made lifelong friends and connections.
After returning to the United States, he received both a master’s and Ph.D. from Florida State University, where he met his wife, Zohre Bahrayni. They were married in 1983 and remained married until he passed.
During his tenure as a professor, he influenced countless students, colleagues, and faculty members. He is remembered for his warmth, wit, kindness, generosity, and inspiration to students. He was a respected figure in the field of international education and economics of education.
Peter was also a polyglot - fluent in multiple languages including French and Hausa. He was an avid traveler, visiting countries around the globe with his family. His passion and zeal for social justice, sustainability, and creating a loving world touched everyone who knew him.
Peter is survived by his wife, Zohre; his sister, Nora; his children, Nasimeh and Naveed and his wife, Natalie; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, Peter’s family kindly asks that donations be made to the Environmental Defense Fund, The Nature Conservancy, or Big Bend Hospice.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 2pm at United Church in Tallahassee, 1834 Mahan Drive, Tallahassee, Florida 32308.
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