Jeanne Louise (Kelly) Peterson

Jeanne Louise “Jena” Kelly Peterson passed away on March 12, 2020, after an extended illness. A beautiful life ended too soon at the age of 66 years. Jena, youngest daughter of the late Dorothy Waterloo and William Kelly, was born on September 1, 1953, in Columbus, Ohio. Her father’s military/civil service career led to homes and travel in the United States and Europe during her childhood and the family eventually settled in Arlington, Virginia. She attended high school in Arlington, earned her degree in Fine Arts at James Madison University and years later completed the production pottery program at Haywood Community College in Waynesville, NC. Following college Jena moved to Raleigh, NC, and soon met her future husband and lifelong best friend, Greg. They were married on June 17, 1984. They chose the mountains of western North Carolina as their home. Jena’s lifelong creative passion found outlets in the design and crafting of beautiful handmade jewelry, pottery and two- and three-dimensional art. Her other passions and hobbies included a desire to help others, adventures, travel, gardening, food, cooking and nutrition. Above all, she respected all life, was a loyal friend and devoted and supportive wife. Jena is survived and loved by her husband Greg, many extended family members and dogs, Pearl and MeMe. A celebration of Jena’s life will be held at a later date. Memorial gifts in Jena’s memory may be made to Four Seasons Hospice.

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