Joyce Keemer Peterson

Dr. Joyce Keemer Peterson “A Dedicated Educator” Joyce Keemer Peterson, the loving daughter of Dr. Edgar Keemer and Grace Keemer Hamilton, born November 18, 1934 in Tennessee, fell asleep in the arms of the Lord, May 12, 2020 after a decade long struggle with dementia. Joyce, a proud graduate of Virginia Union University of Richmond, Virginia, met and married the love of her life, Rev. Dr. John Otis Peterson. This union was blessed with two wonderful children, John Otis Peterson, Jr. and Jewelette Peterson McDaniel. As an ardent Christian, she diligently served in the churches her husband pastored to include his 43-year pastorate of the Alfred Street Baptist Church where she was awarded the position of First Lady Emeritus by the Church. Her love of science education led her to further study at Howard University and many other institutions of higher learning. She demonstrated this dedication to the students of Arlington County, Virginia as she sponsored award winning Science Fairs where students made up some of the nations’ highest performing science students. Numerous awards for her achievements in science were lauded upon her as her dedication to education never wavered. Her love of education can be evidenced in her funding of numerous college scholarships, and support of community efforts to assist the marginalized. Two of her most prized accomplishments at Alfred Street Baptist Church is the founding of the Drama Ministry and the Handbell Choir. Through her support and guidance these ministries soared in popularity and are known for their excellence. These ministries are alive and well today at Alfred Street. When her health declined and she relocated to North Carolina, her love for handbell choirs, led her to sponsor a handbell choir there. Additionally, Joyce has been an avid patron of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Joyce is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and took pride in working and inaugurating public service projects. Her service in education is honored by an Alfred Street Delta Sigma Theta Scholarship Fund. She is survived by her daughter, Jewelette McDaniel (Chris), son John O. Peterson, Jr.; grandchildren, Lauren Peterson, Jonathan McDaniel, Mathew McDaniel, Brian Peterson and John O. Peterson, III; niece Danielle Keemer Edmund (Patrick); 2 great grandchildren, 3 more nieces, 1 nephew, and many other cousins. “God’s reputation in me is on display.” Joni Eareckson Tada

Joyce Keemer Peterson

November 18, 1934 - May 12, 2020