William James “Bill” Peterson, 70, of Cullman, passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at Cullman Regional Medical Center. He was born December 30, 1949 in Alexandria, Minnesota to John and Lorraine Peterson. He was a 1968 graduate of Hixson High School in Hixson, Tennessee and received his Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Middle Tennessee State University in 1972. He went on to have a successful, life-long career in the poultry industry, which led to his induction into the Alabama Poultry and Egg Association Hall of Fame in 2012.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of almost 49 years, Jan, one son, Jamie Peterson (Michelle) of Birmingham, one daughter, Jill Amey (Ted) of Decatur, and six grandchildren: Emma Cate Amey, Claire Amey, Corbin Peterson, Davis Peterson, Anne Mae Peterson, and Jack Peterson. He is also survived by one sister, Kathy Peterson of Tequesta, Florida as well as a host of nieces and nephews.
He was an avid outdoorsman as he loved to hunt, fish, and play golf and enjoyed passing these loves along to his children and grandchildren, who affectionately refer to him as “PawPaw”. He was a big fan of anything having to do with his grandchildren, whether it be attending their sporting events, plays, recitals, or simply playing a board game.
