Gregory Jerome Peters

Gregory Jerome Peters, a beacon of unconditional love and support, died unexpectedly on Sept. 17, 2024, of an aortic aneurysm at age 62. Born Nov. 4, 1961, at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Bethesda, MD, Greg lived a life of devotion to his precious family. Greg was a thoughtful and protective husband, father, pop pop, uncle, son, brother, coach, friend, and neighbor. Greg married the love of his life, Jill Marie Zadra Peters, on Sept. 14, 1985, in Endwell, NY. Two days later the young couple moved to Marietta, GA, where they built a life of laughter and joy together. The birth of their two children skyrocketed Greg’s love of life, which extended to his niece, whom he and Jill helped raise as their own. Decades later, when his granddaughter was born, Greg’s reserved nature could not be contained, he loved that baby girl also as his own. Greg is survived by his wife, Jill Zadra Peters, of Acworth, GA; son, Andrew Gregory Peters and partner, Kayla Cagle, of Acworth; daughter, Jessica Lee Ann Peters of Acworth; niece, Frances Chelsea Rose Ammerman of Boston; three grandchildren, Kadence, Jameson, and Jackson; two sisters, Debbie Peters Sheley of Orlando, FL, and Cyndi Peters Leahy of Liverpool, NY; as well as many nieces and nephews. Greg was pre-deceased by his mother, Mary Rose Peters in 1978, his father, Robert E. Peters in 2022, his brother, Robert William “Bobby” Peters in 1988, and his nephew, Derek Gregory Ammerman in 2018. Despite the tragic death of his mother when he was a teen, Greg persevered through many challenges and touched the lives of countless people with his generous spirit. For decades Greg had a thriving career with Southern Staircase of Georgia, where he rose to senior management. Recently, he managed construction projects nationwide with TPS. Greg’s heart soared every single time he was in the presence of his grandchildren. He cherished his role as Pop Pop. He was the embodiment of a family man who loved being the family jokester, teasing everyone, every chance he could. As a passionate sports fan, Greg was quite possibly Alabama Crimson Tide’s No. 1 supporter. He could and would share every single detail relating to the Crimson Tide. Once a coach, always a coach. Greg taught his granddaughter, Kadence, her favorite first words: “ROLL TIDE!” Sports have always been a big part of Greg’s life. He was a three-season athlete, who enjoyed being a football quarterback, playing basketball and baseball. From his pee wee years on, Greg made connections that grew into lifelong friendships, including his pal Lee, who he coached with decades ago and has appreciated his friendship ever since. Eventually, Greg became “Coach Pete” to many youth teams in the Kennesaw and Acworth, GA, area. He coached his son and daughter’s teams in football, baseball, softball, and basketball. With his playful teaching, Greg’s mentoring inspired many young athletes, some who stayed in touch with him into their adult lives. Greg shared his love for animals with his wife and children, especially the dozens of dogs he had over the years. He volunteered as a transporter for rescue dogs across the southeast and avidly supported veteran causes. Ever since he was a teen, Greg loved muscle cars. He drove his sweet, yellow Mustang Steeda with a big smile on his face, until just a couple of years ago. A celebration of Greg’s life will be Nov. 2, 2024, at Transfiguration Church in Marietta, GA, at 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers please consider donations in honor of Greg at your local animal shelter; or Folds of Honor Foundation; and Tunnel To Towers Foundation. The Peters family has also established a GoFundMe to lift some of the financial burden this unexpected loss has presented. GoFundMe Link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-cherish-the-memory-of-a-caring-father

Gregory Jerome Peters

November 4, 1961 - September 17, 2024