It is with deep sadness that the family and friends of David Lane Peterson, 75, of Gastonia, North Carolina, announce his passing on August 8, 2025. Born on March 20, 1950, in Cherokee County, South Carolina, David was the beloved son of Betty Peterson Kirby of Gaffney, SC, and the late C.B. Peterson.
David was a man whose life was defined by dedication — to his family, his work, his faith, and his community. He served Duke Energy faithfully for over 25 years, bringing not only his skill but also his dependability and warm spirit to his colleagues. At home, David’s devotion to his two daughters was unwavering, his love expressed in countless acts of support, guidance, and care. He had a quirky sense of humor that could brighten any room, and his technological talent meant he was often the go-to person when something needed to be fixed, understood, or rebuilt.
His faith played a central role in his life. As a dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David served as the secretary of the Elder Quorum, where he was affectionately known as “Brother P.” His willingness to help others, coupled with his hands-on skills, made him a friend and mentor to many in his congregation. A natural tinkerer, David found joy in taking things apart and putting them back together, a reflection of his curious mind and problem-solving nature.
David’s life was one of service, kindness, and genuine care for others. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Sherry Curtis Peterson; his daughter, Leah Peterson Stewart and husband, Joseph, of Gastonia; sisters, Susan Howard and husband Mike of Gaffney, SC, and Ann Gordon and husband Tim of Blacksburg, SC; grandchildren, Steven Stone, Thomas Stewart, and Makenna Griggs; sister-in-law, Kim Eaker and husband Roger of Gaffney, SC; brother-in-law, John Curtis of Blacksburg, SC; and numerous nieces and nephews, including Nick Fort (wife Rachel), Aaron Dillon (wife Lauren), Travis Gordon (wife Ashlee), Kirby Velazquez (husband Hector), and Katie Dover (husband Mike).
He was preceded in death by his father, C.B. Peterson; his cherished daughter, Jennifer Peterson; nephew, Clint Fort; and stepfather, Collis Kirby.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at McLean Funeral Directors of Gastonia. A funeral service to celebrate David’s life will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with Bishop David Funderburk officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen – “A Quiet Place.”
David will be remembered as an all-around good man — a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man of quiet strength whose ability to “fix anything” extended far beyond objects, often mending hearts and brightening spirits along the way. His absence will be deeply felt, but his impact will be cherished forever.
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