Johnnie Lee Peterman, 76, of Independence, Missouri passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at 6:00 p.m. Monday, February 9, 2026 at Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence, Missouri. The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Johnnie was born on September 22, 1949, in Harrison, Arkansas, to Ernest and Vianzia (Frye) Hefly. She later made her home in Independence, Missouri, where she and her beloved husband, Bill, shared 49 years of marriage and raised their wonderful family.
Johnnie dedicated 30 years of service to Folgers, retiring after a long and faithful career. Outside of work, her greatest joy was caring for others; whether through her family or her flourishing garden. She truly had a green thumb, taking pride in both her vegetable and flower gardens. Her cherry tomatoes were her favorite, and anyone who knew her knew how much love she poured into everything she grew.
Above all, Johnnie cherished her children and grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She also deeply loved her loyal dog, Reuger, who was always close by.
Johnnie will be remembered for her warmth, devotion to her family, and the quiet joy she found in nurturing life. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched and the love she so freely gave.
Johnnie was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Wilmar; and her sister, Susie.
She is survived by her loving husband, Bill Peterman; sons: Chris (Donna) Myers, Danny (Kim) Myers, and Jay (Tammy) Myers; daughters: Kathy (Tim) Owings, Star (Rick) Kimm; grandchildren: Nathan and Jeremy Myers, Max and Alex Myers, Bryce and Brandi Owings, Johnathan (Crystal) Kimm, Cassie (Bryer) Carpenter, Kyle (Missy) Jones, Kurt (Carrie) Jones, Leah (Joe) Nagy; great-grandchildren Elijah, Lily, Roanin, Joslyn, Nicki, Alysa, BreAnna, CheyAnn and Torryn; sister, Georgia Riddell; black lab, Rueger and very close friends: Bobby and Patty Dye and Jorge and Debbie Barraza.
Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600
We love you so much.... ALWAYS..Star
18 Feb 2026I know that you are with Daddy. HE wouldn’t be without and I left so he can be with you Alrhough we are all missing you we are also at peace and happy you are together and are stillb loving us from Heaven.