Darryl Gene Peters

Darryl Gene Peters, age 86, of New Lebanon, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on January 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Darryl was born on April 30, 1939, in Pike County, Ohio, to Albert Peters, Sr. and Ollie Miller. He was a proud graduate of Jefferson Township High School, Class of 1957, where he met and later married his high school sweetheart, Helen Franks.

Darryl’s outstanding athletic ability earned him a place in the Jefferson High School Athletic Hall of Fame for his accomplishments in basketball and track. He played a leading role on the school’s 1957 state championship track team.

Following graduation, Darryl began his working life at Sucher Meat Packing Company before entering an apprenticeship with General Motors. He went on to dedicate 32 years to GM as a skilled tradesman in Machine Repair, retiring after a long and respected career.

Darryl enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved fishing, gardening, mushroom hunting, and searching for the perfect wild raspberry patch. He was a devoted family man who took great joy in watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in sports and other activities.

Pine Island, Florida, held a special place in Darryl’s heart. He and Helen spent many winters there, warmly welcoming friends and family. Whether traveling north or south on Interstate 75, Darryl was always on the lookout for a hidden fishing hole or a secret mushroom patch.

Darryl was deeply committed to his community and faith. He was a past president of the New Lebanon Lions Club; an active and dedicated Past Master of the Farmersville Masonic Lodge No. 482; Past High Priest of Twin Valley Chapter No. 240 Royal Arch Masons; and a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Dayton. He was a faithful member of the Eversole Church of the Brethren and was honored as a Kentucky Colonel.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 68 years, Helen (Franks) Peters; his children Randy (Tracy) Peters, Ricky (Sheri) Peters, Rochelle (Mike) Howard, and Robyn (Ronnie) Moore; his brothers Albert Peters, Jr., Joe Miller, and Jeff Miller; his sister Jacquie Fugate; and his 11 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Ollie; his brother Bill Peters; his infant son, Darryl Gene Peters, Jr.; and his great-grandson Gabriel Moore.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, January 22, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Rogers Funeral Home, New Lebanon, Ohio. Masonic services will be held at 7:30 p.m. The funeral service will take place on Friday, January 23, at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Bear Creek Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dayton Autism Society, in honor of his special grandson, Matthew Howard.

Darryl will be remembered for his steady presence, generous heart, and the deep love he held for his family, friends, and community. www.RogersFuneralHomes.com