Jeanne Peterson grew up in the bustling city of Cleveland, Ohio—a place she loved despite its rough reputation. From an early age, Jeanne was surrounded by family and creativity. Her mother, a talented ceramic artist, sparked in her a lifelong passion for art, a bond they shared deeply. Jeanne’s twin brother Jim, her close-knit parents, and their weekly church visits created a foundation of love and faith that carried her through life’s many adventures.



Jeanne’s love for art blossomed into a unique talent for creating sculptural floral arrangements and intricate Polish paper cuttings, a craft she has cherished for over 50 years. Though she once sold her art at fairs, these days she creates mostly for joy and to gift to friends—sometimes with a sly smile when family members ask for “wedding gifts” but keep the art for themselves.

After high school, Jeanne left Cleveland to attend Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio, where she earned a degree in education. She began her career as a third-grade teacher, delighting in teaching subjects like cursive and collecting funny and heartwarming stories from her students and their parents. One especially memorable moment came on a family trip to Florida, where Jeanne gathered sand dollars for her students to paint. She still chuckles over a parent’s earnest request for the “recipe” to make sand dollars—a moment of humor that captures Jeanne’s warm spirit.

After many years in the classroom, Jeanne sought a change and found a new home in senior care at Oakwood Village in Madison, Wisconsin. There, she worked alongside doctors and even in the mailroom—roles that allowed her to connect with residents and staff alike. Jeanne fondly recalls the fascinating conversations during her mail runs and the joy she found in this rewarding work.

Beyond her career, Jeanne’s heart was full of family and travel. She met her husband, Alden, at the church she had attended since childhood, and together they built a life filled with love and adventure. After living in Ohio, they moved to North Carolina and raised three children—daughters Patricia and Chris, and son John. Jeanne’s love of travel blossomed alongside her family, with favorite journeys spanning Sweden, Copenhagen, Italy, the Czech Republic, and a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Holy Land with her mother-in-law.

Now at Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale, Jeanne continues to brighten every room with her infectious laughter and boundless creativity. She fills her days making Polish paper cuttings, sharing stories, and admiring the collection of cherished art she’s gathered from a life well-traveled.

Jeanne Peterson’s story is one of artistry, laughter, and lasting connections—a vibrant tapestry woven from family, faith, and the joy of creating beauty wherever life leads.