Ralph Thayne Peters was called home to the Lord on 17 September 2020. Born October 8, 1934 in Iowa to Ralph and Sylvia Peters. Thayne came to Silver City in 1954 where he met Barbara Little. They married in October 1956 and made Silver City their home. Known for his thunderous laugh, gentle spirit and curious mind, Thayne was a friend to everyone. A gentle giant, children were drawn to him. He loved to tell stories, drink coffee, and laugh with those around him. In his youth he enjoyed hunting and fishing in the Gila Wilderness. In his later years he continued to enjoy the beauty of southern New Mexico through the lens of his camera. Many times, he would say to a stranger “Let me ask you a question”, and then start a conversation with that person about a common interest.

He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Silver City, served on numerous committees within the church and was Sunday School superintendent for many years. He loved the Lord and his church family. He spent many years working for Community Public Service Electric Company as an assistant engineer, and had several businesses including Century 21 Real Estate, Peters Insurance and C&R Carwash. For a time, he enjoyed flying small planes around the southwest. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 64 years, Barbara L. Peters, three children, Lee Ann Hoppman (Cliff), Christopher Peters (Stacy) and Ralph Peters (Melissa), 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. He is preceded in death by parents, a brother Barry Layton Peters and sister Gloria Peters Garland. Visitation will be Thursday, September 24 th from 10-11am at Terrazas Funeral Chapels. The funeral service will begin at 11am with Pastor Charles Lord officiating. Concluding service and interment will follow at Memory Lane cemetery. Pallbearers are Kenny McCauley, Tylor Peters, Eugene Van Dran, Ryan Dobson, Lupe Natividad, and John Carter. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels “Trusted care for the ones you love” ~ 575-537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.