Peter T. Sarjeant

Peter Thomson Sarjeant, age 89, traded this earthly adventure for a heavenly one on June 26. Born in Orillia, Ontario, on June 24, 1929, he received his undergraduate degree from Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario. He eventually took a job in Charleston, SC, and moved there with his wife, Marjorie Jean Gilbert, in 1957. He received his Ph.D. from Penn State University and worked in the papermaking industry as a chemical engineer for more than 30 years, in both Charleston and in Covington, VA. During his working career, in his spare time, this lifelong learner built a boat, a telescope and a harpsichord; he made jewelry, handmade paper and wine. Retirement in Highlands, NC, and then Bedford, VA, offered even more opportunities to learn: to play the bagpipes, to be a beekeeper, to work in other countries as a volunteer, to co-author puzzle books. Fun and fun-loving, Peter enjoyed gardening, music, travel and cooking. Simply put, Peter loved life and all it had to offer – and he loved sharing the knowledge that came with his experiences, often over a beer. It’s 5 o’clock all the time now, Dad.

Peter is survived by his wife, Jean; two daughters, Evelyn (Greg) Bennett of Louisville, TN, and Sandra (John) Parks of Bedford, VA; four grandchildren, Erin (Ryan) Fox of Hagerstown, MD, Jessica (Daniel) Howard of Knoxville, TN, Brittany (Evan) Holder of Daphne, AL, and Michael Herald, also of Knoxville; and four great-grandchildren, Wesley and Carter Howard, Aleyn Holder and Cora Fox. He also leaves behind a brother, David (Jean) Sarjeant, and sister, Suzanne Stevens, all in Ontario; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Stanley and Pierrette Gilbert, of Kirkland, Quebec; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the caring staff at Oakwood Health and Rehab Center. They filled Peter’s last year with many hugs and smiles, which meant so much. A private memorial service is planned for a later date. Those wishing to honor Peter’s memory may donate to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association in his name.