Thursday, October 1, 2026
James Roy "Jim" Peters peacefully entered the presence of his Lord and Savior on June 2, 2026, at the age of 86 in Vacaville, California.
Born on December 3, 1939, in Stilwell, Oklahoma, to Hershel R. Peters and Vena M. Peters, Jim spent his early years in Claremore, Oklahoma, before moving with his family to California, where he grew up in Richmond, San Pablo, and San Jose. He attended San Jose State College before transferring to Long Beach State College, where he earned his teaching degree.
Jim's career reflected his passion for serving others. After working for Ford Motor Company with his father early in life, he devoted more than four decades to education, serving as an Industrial Arts teacher, Junior High Vice Principal, Middle and High School Principal, District Administrator, and Athletic Director. He was respected as a thoughtful leader, mentor, and advocate for students and families.
Jim married Darla Sowers in 1963, and together they raised three sons in San Jose, California. In 1981, the family relocated to Grants Pass, Oregon. In 1985, he married Carole Travalini, beginning a loving marriage that spanned more than 40 years and brought together a blended family that enriched all of their lives. In time, they made their home in Mukilteo, Washington, while also cherishing time with family in Vacaville, California, and Grants Pass, Oregon.
Jim was an enthusiastic sports fan who faithfully followed the Seattle Seahawks and Oklahoma Sooners football and Arizona Wildcats basketball. He believed in doing things the right way. He honored personal integrity and humility, and he valued the trust of a handshake deal.
Above all else, Jim cherished his family, his faith, and his friendships. He was known for his genuine interest in others, his generosity, his sense of humor, and his remarkable ability to form meaningful connections with people from all walks of life. Jim lived with muscular dystrophy, which impacted his mobility and also contributed to his strength of character and ability to inspire and connect with others. A devoted Christian, Jim's faith in Jesus Christ guided his life and continued to deepen throughout the years.
He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife, Carole D. Peters; their children, David (Julie) Peters, Mike (Emily) Peters, Lance (Jill) Peters, Laura (Vince) Granzella, Mike Travalini, and Anne (Dennis) Hart; his sister, Patricia A. Welch; their grandchildren, Benjamin, Shaelyn (Riley), Winslow, Josephine, Ann (Gabe), Nathan (Megan), Amy, Carlo (Christina), Antonio (Alexis), Miranda (Ben), Gino, Makala (Clay), Ashley (Kohl), Courtney (Chase), and Bailey (Vinny); fifteen great-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends.
Jim's family finds comfort in knowing that he is now renewed and rejoicing in the presence of the Lord he faithfully loved and served.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 24, 2026, at Northshore Christian Church, 5700 23rd Drive West, Everett, Washington 98203. The service will begin at 2:00 p.m., followed by refreshments and fellowship.
