Lynn Edward Peters

Lynn Edward Peters, 75, of Elk Garden, VA, passed away on Saturday, June 1st, 2024, at his home. He was born on January 2, 1949, in Kingsport, TN, to Carl Edward Peters and Ella June Haynes Peters. 

Lynn is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 53 years, Sue Peters. While Lynn had many adventures and interests throughout his life, nothing made him happier than spending time with Sue. Whether it was planting a Victory Garden of Tulips, sharing a quiet meal from Pal’s Sudden Service, or admiring their beautiful pets; Lynn cherished his time with Sue above all else. 

Lynn is also survived by his brother, Ronnie Peters and wife Kimberly; niece, Carrie Dykes and husband Daniel; great-niece, Breanna Dykes; nephew, Shawn Peters and wife Heather Denny; sister-in-law, Paulette Cassell; great-niece Dagny Hensley; and numerous special cousins who he held dear to his heart throughout his lifetime. He was predeceased by his parents, Carl and June Peters; brother-in-law, Sam Cassell; and niece, Samantha Hensley. 

A native of Southwest Virginia, Lynn graduated from Gate City High School in 1967. In 1971, he received his Bachelor of Science degree from the College of Business Administration and Economics at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, TN. Lynn was also very strong in his Christian faith. 

Lynn’s service to his country in the United States Army earned him the rank of sergeant with the 844th Battalion, U.S. Army Combat Engineers. His training at Fort Leonard Wood in the Missouri Ozarks included infantry combat tactics, demolition, and construction skills. He was also a noted expert marksman. As part of his duties with the Army Reserve, Lynn trained two weeks a year at Fort Bragg, NC, with the 548th Combat Engineers and the 82nd Airborne Division. 

Lynn joined the staff of the old Lebanon General Hospital in 1972 as an accountant and had a fulfilling career that also included roles as Chief Financial Officer and Controller, working at Russell County Medical Center for 25 years. He was recognized as Controller of the Year and took pride in helping make RCMC a leader in healthcare throughout the region.

 An auto racing enthusiast, Lynn enjoyed sharing stories of his racing exploits, which included numerous Late Model Track Championships and Wins as the owner of Coyote Racing. One of his proudest moments was in May 1986, when he and friends entered the NASCAR Cup Series race at Talladega Superspeedway with driver Connie Saylor, who qualified their unsponsored No.99 Chevrolet at a speed of 203.562 mph, part of NASCAR’s only “all-200-mph field” in history.

 Lynn will perhaps be best known for being the friendly face of Pro Image Computer Graphics. He would often stay up late at night working on projects for clients, ensuring that racers had all the decals that they’d need, and creating special logos for local school and civic groups. Lynn began hand-painting cars with a paintbrush prior to delving into the world of cut vinyl graphics. His quality and service were impeccable, and he supported local racers throughout Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, North Carolina, and as far away as Australia. 

Lynn's other interests included spending time in nature, photography, and sharing his love and affection with the cats and dogs in his life. He was also an avid reader, cherishing a vast collection of books gifted by family and friends. Lynn once said, “I try to read a book every week, more if possible,” with a preference for history, politics, economics, and religion. 

Lynn will be remembered for his kindness, honesty, trustworthiness, friendship, and phone calls that could stretch into the early morning hours. He touched many lives through his contributions to the regional healthcare system and auto racing. 

The Peters family would like to thank Jeff Roark for years of unwavering friendship and support, both on the track and in the race of life. Thank you for always being a steadfast companion and trusted friend.

 Thank you to the Pro Image Family of Racers who have allowed us to share in your racing passion over the years. We have cherished every Pole Award, Feature Win and Championship from drivers across the country with the PRO IMAGE logo proudly displayed on their race car. 

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024 at 2 p.m. in the Combs-Hess Funeral Service chapel.  The family will receive friends from 12 p.m. until the time of the service.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society and St. Jude's. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to friends and family for their support during this difficult time.  Burial will follow in Russell Memorial Cemetery. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

      Racer’s Prayer 

 Lord I Pray as I race today

 Keep me safe along the way.

Not only me but others too

As they perform the jobs they do.

I know God that in a race

I the driver must set the pace.

But in this race of life I pray,

Help me Lord along the way.

Although I know I am a sinner,

Help me to believe that with God,

You’re always a winner.

               Amen