Ret. Lt. Col. Roosevelt Peters, a native of Bogalusa, passed away Friday, Aug. 9, in his Baton Rouge home at the age of 77.

Peters was a retired lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army, a former professor of Military Science Army ROTC at Southern University (1984-88) and a mathematics teacher at Baker High School and Baton Rouge Community College.

Peters was a 1960 graduate of Central Memorial High School and remained involved in the school’s alumni activities.

He served as the director of the Central mass reunion, which is held every two years. The tradition began in 1983.

Although he lived in Baton Rouge, Peters made many regular stops in Bogalusa throughout the years. In December of 2014, he was the guest speaker for a “Wreaths Across America” event held at Bogalusa Cemetery. He also spoke to the Jr. ROTC cadets at Bogalusa High School that same week.

Peters’ military career covered three commands, two ROTC tours, two tours of Vietnam, and one tour of Hawaii. His service awards included the Meritorious Service Medal, Purple Heart, four Bronze Stars with Valor Device, and five Army Commendation Medals including one with Valor Device.

He is survived by his wife, Janifer Broome Peters; and children, Kendra (John) Peters-Ross and Kristopher Peters.

Peters’ funeral was Friday at the Greater Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Scotlandville. Condolences may be offered online at www.halldavisandsons.com.