Betty Jean Richardson Peterson, 93, passed away Saturday, October 28, 2023, in Pensacola surrounded by her family.

Betty was born January 11, 1930, in Whistler, AL (Mobile County). She was one of 6 children of Harold L. Richardson and Fae Wilson Richardson. She attended Whistler Elementary School and graduated from Murphy High School. After several years working as a bank teller for Merchants National Bank in Mobile, AL, she met and married her husband of 69 years, Peter W. "Pete" Peterson, and began their family several years later.

She leaves behind daughters, Peg Magley (Mike) and Sue Maxwell; sons, Tom Peterson (Amber) and Steve Peterson (GiGi); seven grandchildren, Taylor Maxwell, Kyle Maxwell, Jill Magley Heckman, Mitch Peterson, Brent Peterson, Amy Peterson, and Jay Peterson; four great-grandsons, Jamie Maxwell, Colin Maxwell, Charlie Heckman, and Jacob Heckman; and many nieces and nephews that meant so much to her.

Upon beginning their family, Betty became a fulltime homemaker. She and family lived in Whistler until moving to Pensacola in 1967. She was a long-time member of St. Mark United Methodist Church where she cherished friendships and activities over the years. Betty enjoyed the social aspect of the Woodham High School Football Booster Club where she made close and long-time friends. She was an enthusiastic Auburn Football fan, loving weekend football trips with friends and family.

Betty could be quiet, but upon knowing someone well, she enjoyed, talking, laughing, and sharing time in a big way. One of five girls, Betty had a strong bond with her sisters and their families. She and Pete spent much time in Mobile throughout their lives staying close to both sides of the family. When grandchildren came along, they became her focus. She was a sacrificial giver of her time, gifts, and love. They "make my heart happy" she would say. She will be greatly missed by her children & grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Pete Peterson; all her sisters, Juanita Mayr, Eileen Phillips, Nancy Peterson, and Joyce Patrick; as well as her brother, Harold Richardson, Jr.

Visitation will be held at 10:00am until the Funeral Service at 11:00am Friday, November 3, 2023, at St. Mark United Methodist Church, 2203 N. 12th Ave., Pensacola, FL 32503 with Rev. Dan Baughman and Rev. David Morris officiating. Burial will follow at Bayview Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mark United Methodist Church, or a charity of your choice.