of Conway, AR
December 2, 1936 - August 19, 2018
Paul Edward Peterson of Conway passed away at the age of 81 on August 19, 2018. He was born December 2, 1936, in Franklin, Pennsylvania, to Lewis and Martha Peterson. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 42 years, Susan. He is also survived by his sister Janeann Conner of Daytona Beach, FL; children Dan, Ashley, Lisa, Bobbie Lou, and Randy; and his many grandchildren.
Paul is a veteran of the Vietnam War having served with the US Navy and Marines. After being wounded, which left him unable to continue to serve, he worked a variety of jobs until he found his home in teaching. He began as a public school teacher and principal in Pennsylvania. He eventually earned his Ed.D in Educational Leadership from the University of Akron in 1983. After earning his doctorate, he enjoyed a 19-year career at the University of Central Arkansas where he served as Chair of the Department of Administration and Secondary Education. He was known for his expertise in school law and authored three volumes of Law in Arkansas Public Schools. At UCA, he also founded the Pi Beta Chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, an international honor society in education.
After retiring, he enjoyed traveling, wood carving, and spending time boating and fishing on the river with friends and family.
A memorial reception honoring his life will be held on Saturday, August 25, from 2-4 p.m. in the Mirror Room of McAlister Hall on the UCA campus. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite charity.
Sign Guestbook
12 Condolence(s)
Douglas Peterson
Sunday, October 7, 2018
Most of my memories of Uncle Paul - my family called him Pep - were from my childhood in Franklin and Greensburg Pennsylvania. His family's visit to our Greensburg home were anticipated by me with great excitement. Pizza night was always great fun with Pep and the family at the adult's table and with Randy, Bobbie Lou, Lisa and me talking and having the time of our lives. Pep was always the life of the party and I always have taken comfort knowing that he was enjoying his family and life in Arkansas. The Peterson Family will surely miss one of its most inimitable and revered members. My most sincere condolences go out to his immediate family.
Carl Deal
Saturday, September 15, 2018
Dr. Peterson was very kind to me during my graduate studies at UCA. I considered him a friend, mentor and confidant. Few instructors take the time and effort to show genuine concern for their students. Paul Peterson was an exceptional human being. I am deeply moved by his passing. My prayers go out to his family and friends. God bless you all and immerse you in his endless grace during this time of loss.
Carol Stroud
Saturday, August 25, 2018
Susan,so sorry for you loss. Saying prayers for peace and comfort for you and your family.
David & Somer Robertson
Saturday, August 25, 2018
May God bless you with love and comfort in this time of need.
Charlotte Strickland
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful person. I am praying for you and your family.
Charlotte Strickland
Nancy Ringgold
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Susan-
I am so saddened to hear of Dr. Peterson's passing! My heart is breaking...especially for you, Dan and Ashley! I have never forgotten how kind he was to me when I first started working in the Admin & Sec Educ. dept, here at UCA. He looked out for me and helped me so much! You may remember that when I first started working here, I was considered temporary help, and was for almost 6 months before I was finally hired on as full time. The thing is, I probably wouldn't have been hired on then if it hadn't been for him pushing to get me hired. That was 22 years ago and I'm still here, in the same building. He was such a good friend to me and I have thought of him often over the years.
I'm so very sorry, Susan! I will be praying for you, and for the family, during this very difficult time!
Nancy
Pam
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
No words can describe how much this man meant to me as well as you and Ashley and Dan I'll think of him often there's nothing I can say that you guys don't already know love you dearly to the Man and his whole Family that took me in as one of their own there will always be a piece of my heart missing now peace be with you all much love and respect your aka adopted daughter Pam and Charlie
Walt & Becky Bloom
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Dear Sue...Becky and I just learned of Paul's passing from Randy. We extend our deepest sympathies to you and Family. Although we hadn't kept up with you and Paul in recent years, we recall often and fondly the bygone days on Third Street of our many times together laughing and carrying on as we did. Paul was a great friend, always interesting and entertaining with never a dull moment! When, and if you visit our area please let us know so we can spend some time together. Sincerely Walt & Becky
Richard and Yvonne Lovell
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Carrie and Dan,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathies to your entire family during this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Taylor
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Condolences to the entire family. May many fond memories and the loyal love of Almighty God be with and comfort all of you. Warm Christian love. 1 Peter 5:7
Linda Arnold & Bob Lowrey
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Dear Susan & Family,
We are so sorry to hear of Paul's death. We will be thinking of you & holding you in our hearts during this sad time. Paul was a dedicated educator & a truly engaging man who knew how to bring people in & foster conversation. We wish you comforting memories of happy times with Paul.
Linda & Bob
Susan & Stanley Woodard
Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Dear Sweet Family,
We were very sorry to hear about Paul. He was so precious to us for many, many reasons, not the least of which was his wonderful family. We treasure the fun and very funny times our family spent with all of you. Paul achieved so much in his life, and we couldn't help but notice that his magnificent cookie recipe was not mentioned. We always knew where to find him and also that he usually had a coffee can full of these delightful treats. He will certainly be missed by all.
Much love to you and please know you will be in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.