Kathleen (McPherson) Peterson

Kathleen (McPherson) Peterson - Tarentum Kathleen Marie (McPherson) Peterson, beloved wife, mother, Granmie, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2024 at the age of 71. Born in New Kensington on April 10, 1953 to the late David and June (Yute Elkin) McPherson, Kathy lived a life marked by love, kindness, and dedication to her family and Christian ministry. 

Kathy, a graduate of Springdale High School (1971), was the loving sister of David (Louise) Elkin, Jean (Larry) Fetterman, Matthew (Deb Linn) McPherson, Amy (Richard) Sweazy, Wendy Stover (Don), and Jenny McPherson (Anthony). She married the love of her life, Craig Peterson, with whom she shared 42 years of marriage filled with joy, laughter, and love. Together, they raised their two children, making memories camping, fishing, and serving the Lord at Port Barnett, Meade Chapel, Wren, Normalville, Pleasant Hill, Emerickville, Townville, Troy Center, Rogers Chapel, Ford Memorial, Manorville, Union Avenue, East Brady, and Sligo United Methodist Churches. 

As a children’s and youth ministry leader, Kathy’s contributions to her community were numerous and deeply felt. She touched the lives of many children and adults through her roles in Mustard Seed Kids, Campfire Kids, Buckeye Y, various Vacation Bible Schools, as a Brookville High School aide, teaching release time, and as secretary of First Baptist Church of Kittanning. She was known for her warm hospitality, always opening her home to family and friends for game nights, parties, and time together. 

Kathy’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She cherished every moment with them, creating lasting memories that will be treasured forever.

Kathleen is survived by her husband, Craig Peterson (of Tarentum);  brother Dave, sisters Jean, Wendy, and Jenny; and in-laws Ron (Phyllis) Peterson. Dan (Sue) Peterson, and Ruth (Steve) Grbach; her children, Becky Willis (of Kittanning) and Jack Peterson (of Butler); and her grandchildren, Arianna, Evan, Ava, Isla, and Emmett. She also leaves behind a host of relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

Arrangements are being handled by Charles B. Jarvie Funeral Home (Springdale). A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held over the summer with details to come. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Three Rivers Hospice or New Life Center Teens & Kids Ministries (Ford City). 

Kathleen Marie McPherson Peterson’s legacy of love for all will continue to inspire those who knew her. Until we can say, “Hello Again”, she will be deeply missed. 

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