Franklin Russell Peters

Franklin “Russell” Peters, 69, passed away peacefully on December 30 in Charleston, SC surrounded by his family after a hard-fought battle with cancer. 

Russell was born on October 12, 1955 in Forsyth, GA to William Newton Peters and Mary Geneva Goodrum Peters. He was a mischievous child, known by “Bo” to his family, and would speak fondly of his childhood on the dairy farm. He graduated from Mary Persons High School and in 1989 completed a degree in hospitality from Georgia State University. His graduation kicked off a long career in the restaurant industry, highlighted by 28 years with Waffle House.

His former Waffle House coworkers have described him as a “legend” due to his hard work ethic and his care for his employees. At work, Russell loved chatting with his employees and customers alike, often regaling his family with their stories at the end of the day. 

Russell married Roberta Munchak Peters in 1986, noting throughout his life that marrying her was the best decision he ever made. Russell was very proud of their children Beth, Laura, and Frank, and was a supportive father, providing them with gentle encouragement and guidance. His favorite role was “silly Granbo” as he doted on his grandchildren with love and laughter.

Russell loved learning, whether by reading detailed historical markers and museum placards in full or watching documentaries. He knew more Jeopardy! answers than the rest of the family and always finished the crossword puzzle first. 

He found joy in the simple things in life, and his easy-going personality and curious nature made him friends everywhere he went; he never met a stranger. Spending time with Russell often involved music, plenty of good food and drinks, stories from his past, jokes (that occasionally only he found funny), laughter, and always ended with dessert, preferably something with chocolate.

Russell is survived by his beloved wife Roberta Peters; children, Beth Peng (Justin), Laura Peters, and Frank Peters (Haley); grandchildren, Izzy Peng, Anna Peng, and Nolan Peters; sister, Neva Peters; brothers, Jim Peters, Barry Peters, Nathan Peters, and Thomas Peters; and numerous other family members and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In his honor, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society (P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741) or to Giving Kitchen (970 Jefferson Street, Suite 8, Atlanta, GA 30318) to support food service workers.

Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc. West Ashley Chapel.

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