Joseph Peyton,'s Obituary
Joseph Peyton Jr., 66, of Tacoma Washington, passed away Wednesday, July 2nd at his home after a brief battle with brain cancer. Joe was born in Monticello, Mississippi, and moved to Tacoma in the 1950's. He was a retired professor and track and cross-country coach at the University of Puget Sound, and a retired Major of the U.S. Army Reserves. Joe was a very active community member. He was an organizer and a leader who enjoyed his associations with Alpha Phi Alpha, retired army friends of the 4th Medical Battalion, Habitat for Humanity, The Tacoma Learning Center, the Mississippi club, and many other organizations. He liked helping people in need who appreciated his time and efforts. Joe was loved and respected by many people. He was always positive, happy, kind, and caring, a friendly man who never met a stranger. He inspired many people with his special ability to make them believe in themselves. Joe was the son of the late Joseph Peyton Sr. and the late Thelma (Robinson) Peyton. He was the spouse of Roberta Wilson, having been married for 17 years. Joe is survived by his daughters Jocelyn Peyton of Tacoma, Julia Peyton of Seattle, and 2 sisters: Yvonne Stovall, and Joyce Madison of Chicago, IL, and his sister-in-law Charlene Peyton of Gig Harbor. His Brother Kenneth Peyton preceded him in death in January 2003. Joe is also survived by two grandchildren, LaShae' Peyton and Maurice Ryan. The family would like to thank his doctors and the medical staff of Madigan Army Medical Center for their expert care. Joe, along with his family, also wanted to thank the guards of the gates at Ft. Lewis who assisted the many civilians who wished to visit him and pay their respects. A memorial service open to all will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2003 at the University of Puget Sound on Peyton field in Baker Stadium at 3:00 p.m. in Tacoma, Washington. Chaplain Jim Davis will conduct the service. Viewing of Joseph will be at Mt. View Funeral Home noon to 9:00 Wednesday & Thursday. A private funeral and burial will be held for family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: The University of Puget Sound, scholarship fund, Tacoma/Pierce County Habitat for Humanity, Franciscan Hospice, or to a charity of your choice.
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