Deborah Peterson

Debbie Peterson peacefully passed away at her home with her loved ones on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the too-young age of 74.

Born and raised in Gulfport, Debbie spent the last 50 years living in Saucier with her adoring husband, John. She was a beautiful loving wife, mother, and adopted grandmother. She loved fiercely and supported her family’s hopes and dreams. She was the life of every party, even though she never drank alcohol. She never met a stranger a day in her life and was always truthful, always coming from a place of love and understanding.

Debbie was a proud Domestic Engineer, keeping her house spotless despite a husband and two sons who didn’t appreciate cleanliness and order the way she did. She was a master cook even though she never measured an ingredient and couldn’t (or wouldn’t) tell you how to replicate the dish. She never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or phone number. She didn’t like odd numbers and would absolutely refuse to do anything on the 13th of the month.

Anyone who met her was a better person after speaking with her for any length of time. Anyone who knew her loved her and she will be greatly missed.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Collins, Sr. and Vera Mae Patton Collins; and many loved ones. She is survived by her husband, John Peterson; son, Kurrie Peterson; son, Josh Peterson and his wife, Sabra; adopted granddaughter Brittany Lewis and her husband Devin; brother, Robert Collins, Jr.; brother Richard Collins; and so many loving nieces, nephews, in-laws and out-laws, neighbors, and friends that were always family in her heart.

The Peterson family gives special thanks to Hospice of Light and their caring staff for their invaluable support.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. Friday, September 12, 2025, at Evergreen Cemetery in Gulfport.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Feed My Sheep by check or online payment in memory of Debbie Peterson.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is serving the family.