James Lenard Peterson took flight amongst the angels on March 5th, 2024, leaving us a lifetime of memories to treasure.  James: affectionately known as "Mickey" was born March 21st, 1945, to the late Nancy Peterson.  Raised in Norfolk, James is a proud graduate of Booker T. Washington High School.  Afterwards spanning the globe in the US Navy (ret.) including 2 tours in Vietnam and later retiring from Sentara Healthcare, James not only served his country but the community around him as well.

A willing vessel unto the Lord, James worshipped faithfully at New Macedonia Christian United Church of Christ Norfolk, Virginia as a choir member and with endless displays of his extraordinary culinary gifts.  His creations in the kitchen were truly from the heart and embraced us all.

Outside of his service to others James enjoyed entertaining with family and friends, creating special holiday moments for his nieces and nephews, taking care of his home and savoring what life had to offer.

Welcoming him to glory are his mother Nancy Peterson (2005) and brother Donnell Peterson.  To cherish his memory, James leaves behind a brother Larry Peterson (Norfolk), sister Olena Peterson (Norfolk), sister Betty Daniels (Norfolk), brother David Peterson (Atlanta) and brother Robert Peterson (Norfolk).  Also, godsisters Blanch Surls and Yvonne Smith (both of Norfolk), godchildren James Surls and Blanche Surls Johnson (Norfolk), endearing nieces, cherished nephews, a host of family and a loving community of friends.

James' zeal for life, compassion and generosity towards others will forever warm our hearts.