Julia May Peterson

Julia May PetersonJuly 17, 1931 – March 13, 2026Julia May Peterson, age 94, of Hardy, Virginia, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026, in Radford, Virginia.Julia was born on July 17, 1931, in Bremerton, Washington, to the late Hugh Hetrick and Julia Hetrick.In 1959, Julia moved to Southern California, where she lived for many years and raised her family. In 2017, she moved to Hardy, Virginia, where she lived with her son Robert Peterson until the time of her passing.Julia was a devoted woman of faith. She was a member of the Church of the Nazarene in Huntington Park, California, and later attended Cornerstone Church in Chino, California. Her faith in God was a central part of her life and guided the love and kindness she showed to those around her.She worked for Baker’s Burgers for 25 years and was known for her dedication and strong work ethic. Julia continued working well into her later years and retired at the remarkable age of 81.Julia found joy in the simple and meaningful moments of life. She loved reading her Bible, tending to her garden, and baking with her grandchildren—creating cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of her family.Julia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Kenneth Peterson.She is survived by her sons: Robert Peterson of Hardy, Virginia; David Peterson of Chino, California; and Michael Horst of El Paso, Texas. She will be remembered as a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose gentle spirit, strong faith, and loving heart touched many lives.Psalm 23:1–6The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.Arrangements by Conner-Bowman Funeral Home & Crematory, 62 VA Market Place Drive, Rocky Mount, VA 24151