Phillip Leroy Peterson

Phillip L. Peterson, 83, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2024 at Loveland Healthcare Center, Loveland, OH.

Born on April 22, 1941 to Etta Mae (Gillman) and Francis L. (Pete) Peterson at the family homestead on Roudebush Rd., Wayne Township, OH. He is survived by his loving wife ("his girl") Carolyn Miller Peterson of 57 years; married September 30, 1967 in Dayton, OH. He is also survived by his children who loved him dearly, Christine (Jeff) Sharpless, Melissa Williams, Angela Sharpless, Carla Peterson and John Peterson. Phillip was blessed with 11 adoring grandchildren. Phillip and his wife lovingly raised Carla's 3 children, Calena Peterson, Brandon Peterson and Stephanie (Christian) Giglio, as their own. He was the best Grandpa to Rachel, Jessica, Eric and Evan Sharpless (children of Christine & Jeff), William Alec Williams (child of Melissa & Doug) and Josh (Tabitha), Justin and Kyle Sharpless (children of Angela & Ray). He is survived by his younger brother who was so loved and important to him, Paul (JoAnn) Peterson, dear nieces Tammy Peterson, Leslie Nahigyan and nephew Dave (Nancy) Nahigyan.

Phillip was preceded in death by his dear parents and by his loving "Mom" Roxie Creech, who raised him and his brother as her own along with the help of "Grandpa" Charles Dumford. He was also preceded in death by his loving sister Phyllis (Bruce) Nahigyan.

Throughout his life Phillip had the heart of a servant. At the age of 16 he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior who became his guiding light and provided the roadmap for his life. For most of his years he grew up and lived in Newtonsville, OH. After graduating from Clermont Northeastern High School in 1960, he enlisted and served in the United States Navy from 1960-1964 along with 2 years reserve until 1966. He was proud to serve his country as a Navy medic attached to the United States Marines Corp during the Cold War Era. After returning home he decided to continue his education at Olivet Nazarene College in Kankakee, IL. During his time at Olivet he met the love of his life, Carolyn, who was also attending college there. He lovingly joked he helped her get her "MRS" degree. After they were married they returned to Newtonsville where they bought their home and raised a family. He was employed by General Motors in Norwood, OH from 1969-1999 retiring after 30 years. During his time working at GM in the early 70's he felt the calling to preach the Gospel. He went back to school part-time at Mount Vernon Nazarene University in Mount Vernon, OH earning his associates degree in Ministry. He was an Ordained Minister of the Church of the Nazarene from 1973 to 1985. During that time Phillip served as Associate Pastor for the Newtonsville Nazarene Church. He also served on the Church Board, as a Trustee, Sunday School Teacher, Bible Study Leader, Teen Youth Director and Junior Church Director. He also drove around the county in the family van picking up the kids that needed a ride to church. He traveled to other Nazarene churches to preach and also performed funerals and weddings over the years. In 1985 he moved his family's membership to the Pisgah Nazarene Church which later became the West Chester Nazarene Church during his time there. More recently he and Carolyn worshiped at the Springvale Baptist Church in Goshen, OH which was closer to home.

In the early 2000's he chose to serve his beloved community becoming a town councilman in Newtonsville then serving as mayor for four years.

Phillip mostly loved spending fun times with family and always enjoyed a good home cooked meal. He loved traveling across the country he loved so much with his family, enjoying many beaches, mountains and many historical sites. He greatly loved Stonelick Lake, a state park down the road from his home. He worked at the concession stand and paddle boat rental as a teen. Over the years he enjoyed many picnics with family and friends at Stonelick. He always wanted to take a walk or just take a drive through the park to enjoy God's handiwork in nature. He enjoyed many hobbies throughout his life. He was a big fan of his hometown Cincinnati Reds and Bengals, watching and cheering them on. Additionally, he enjoyed watching Nascar racing as well. In retirement he spent many hours caring for his lawn, riding about on his John Deere tractor clad in his neon green sweatshirt and Aussie hat. During his time outdoors he could be found visiting with neighbors and critters as well.

Phillip was always known for his kind heart, warm smile and the best hugs ever. Simply put, he was one of the nicest men you could ever meet. He shared his love of Jesus and faith with everyone he met, most importantly with his family. He served as the family patriarch with unmatched love and was a Godly role model. He will be greatly missed by his family who treasured him and to each person who knew and loved him.

We know exactly where he is now, in Heaven waiting on all to join him someday with his loving Jesus. Until we meet again. "Well done, my good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21).

In celebration of Phillip's life the family will receive friends at Evans Funeral Home 1944 State Route 28 Goshen, OH 45122 on Thursday, June 27, 2024 from 6-8 PM. Funeral Service will be held at Evans Funeral Home Goshen, OH Friday, June 28, 2024 at 12:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Ken Dillard. Burial and Military Honors will follow at Plainview Cemetery in Wayne Township.