Martha L. "Marti" Peterson

Martha L. "Marti" Peterson, 89, passed away peacefully at her home on June 29, 2026, in Petersburg, Virginia. Born on December 24, 1936, in Starke, Florida, she lived a life marked by discipline, creativity, and resilience. A long-time-now-retired schoolteacher, Martha had a massive stroke in 2020 and for the last six years was cared for in her home by her daughter Stephanie Gupton, son-in-law Steve Gupton and her grandson Jeffrey Gupton.

Martha was a proud graduate of the University of Florida, having served as Miss University of Florida in 1966. Marth devoted her professional life to education. She was a career schoolteacher for an impressive thirty-two years. For nearly thirty of those years, she taught in Virginia, most of which were spent at then Clements Junior High School, teaching life science to seventh graders.

Beyond her career in education, Martha was a talented artist and photographer. Her creative pursuits brought joy to her life and to those who had the privilege of experiencing her work. Whether through the lens of a camera or the strokes of a paintbrush or pencils, she captured beauty and meaning in the world around her. Martha was a member of the Petersburg Area Art League and the Petersburg Garden Club. Martha had a playful spirit, enjoying social events, parties and festive events of all kinds! Through the years she loved hosting parties in her home. Martha enjoyed life!

Raised in the Baptist tradition, Martha loved her time at then Walnut Hill Baptist Church, and in her last years was a member of Second Baptist Church in Petersburg.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert B. "Bob" Peterson; and her son, Christopher L. Siefferman. Martha is survived by her daughter Stephanie Siefferman Gupton, son-in-law the Reverend Dr. Steven R. Gupton, seven grand-children and numerous great-grandchildren. Her family remembers her as a grand lady with a fighting spirit—a testament to the strength and determination that defined her character.

Martha’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her legacy as an educator, artist, and fighter bring comfort to all who mourn her passing. A Memorial Gathering will be held on July 18, 2026, from 02:00 PM to 04:00 PM at the family home located at 1529 Westover Ave.