R.L. Peterson, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 8th, 2026, in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, at the age of 91. Born on March 2nd, 1935, in North Carolina, R.L. called Pennsylvania home for most of his life, where he built a legacy rooted in love, family, and devotion.

He is lovingly remembered by his five siblings: Calvin Peterson of Erwin, TN; Willard Peterson of West Grove, PA; Dayton (Kathy) Peterson of Erwin, TN; J.C. (Rachel) Peterson of Poplar, NC; and Sherrill (Tammy) Peterson of Erwin, TN. He also leaves behind his sister-in-law Yvonne Peterson of Green Mountain, NC; his three children Rick (Tracey) Peterson of Downingtown, PA, Roger (Susan) Peterson of Kennett Square, PA, and Sherry Robinson (Joe) of Downingtown, PA; along with eight cherished grandchildren—Ricky Lee, Kyle (Julieta), Jessica, Jeremy (Carla), Justin, Joshua, Samantha (Austin), and Nicole—and five precious great-grandchildren: Penelope, Jasper, Cooper, Skylar, and Bryson. Several nieces and nephews also carry fond memories of R.L.’s kindness and warmth.

R.L. was preceded in death by his beloved wife Joyce Peterson, with whom he shared a beautiful 62 years of marriage; his parents, Disa and Luther Peterson; his sister, Nebraska Miller; brothers Mac Peterson, Jim Peterson, and Larry Peterson; and son-in-law Mark Reeser.

A proud veteran, R.L. served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1959. After his service, he dedicated many years to Shelly's Lumber as a committed sales representative before retiring in 2000. Throughout his life, R.L. was known for his signature style—plaid shirts, blue jeans, suspenders, and his ever-present Ford cap—which became symbols of the genuine and hardworking man he was.

He treasured spending time with family and found joy in life’s simple pleasures: classic cars, WWE wrestling, NASCAR racing, a competitive game of Rook, and chewing tobacco, Milky Way chocolate bars, and an ice-cold Pepsi.

A graveside service to celebrate R.L.’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Bennett Cemetery on Elvis Edwards Drive in Green Mountain, North Carolina. Reverend Dean Murphy and Jeremy Peterson will officiate, and military honors will be performed by Sgt. EL Randolph Chapter 57 DAV.

Henline - Hughes Funeral Service is honored to be assisting the Peterson family.