William "Billy" Joseph Peters, Sr.

William Joseph Peters, Sr. (Billy) age 95, passed away at his home on Thursday, December 26, 2024. Billy was the son of Joseph Clyde Peters and Kathleen Dunn Peters. He was born July 17, 1929 in Cairo, Georgia at the family home of the Dunn’s. In 1930 his family moved to Blakely where they built and operated the Blakely Theatre, Peters Drive In, Rexall Drug Co and Peters Insurance. After graduating Riverside Military Academy and attending Middle Georgia College in Cochran, Georgia, Billy returned to Blakely. He married Joy Chiles on August 20, 1950 at Blakely Baptist Church of which he was a member. Billy was a Charter Member of the Blakely Town and Country Club, serving as secretary for 25 years. A member of Magnolia Lodge #86, Blakely Shrine Club and Hasan Temple. Upon retirement, he began what would become an impressive volunteer career at the Georgia State Golf Association in 1973. He served on several committees including Chairman of the Rules Committee and as President from 1980 to 1982. He acquired state qualifying events for the USGA and implemented the USGA Ghin system, a worldwide golf handicap system. Peters has been recognized as a rules expert and has been invited to serve at the US Open and U.S. Amateur. In 1983 he founded the Georgia Junior golf Foundation and the Jr. Academy. He received a 1985 Service to Sports Award and the President’s service award from the Georgia Golf Hall f Fame. Peters is an honorary Vice President of the Georgia PGA and in 1996 was elected as a lifetime honorary member of the Ga PGA. In 1997, the trophy for the biennial GAPGA/GSGA challenge was named in his honor. Peters was inducted into the Georgia Golf Hall of Fame in 1993 with Lewis Grizzard as speaker. Billy is survived by his wife of 74 years, Joy Chiles Peters, his only child, Joe Peters (Debra) Watkinsville, Georgia, two grandsons Joseph Peters (Lindsay) Watkinsville, Georgia, Ryan Peters (Adele) Atlanta, Georgia. Three wonderful great grandchildren who he adored, Wyatt, Libby and Miles Peters all of Watkinsville, Georgia. Our family wishes to thank the outstanding team of Georgia Hospice and loving caregivers Amy Herring, Margaret Davis and Dee Davis for who made it possible for Billy to live comfortably until his death in the house in which he was raised. Also, our Library ladies who always had something for Billy to read as he was an avid reader. A family graveside service will be held with Dr. Alex Howell officiating. The family is so thankful for the many friends that touched Billy’s life and are saddened that we will not be able to gather together to celebrate him. The family invites you to share your memories and condolences through Manry- Jordan-Hodges website. In lieu of food and flowers the family suggests donations in honor of Billy to: Blakely First Baptist Church Lucy Hilton Maddox Library 790 South Church Street 11880 Columbia Street Blakely, Georgia 39823 Blakely, Georgia 39823