James W. Peters

James W. Peters, 68, of Billings, left to be with his father, mother and wife on April 4, 2016. James was born to Glen and Doris Peters on June 2, 1947, in Glendale, Calif. Jim grew up in Southern California, attending elementary through high school there.

Jim attended and graduated college at the University of Oregon and graduated with a master's in English and library science. In June 1975, he married Christine Lee Egan and moved to Billings. They had two children, Jane and Matthew. He started his library career here in Billings at Billings Public Library (formerly Parmly Billings Library). He retired in September of 2009 as the assistant director. His accomplishments during the time included creating the Book Discussion Group, developing the Teen Pit, starting a CD music collection and overseeing the library evolving from print cataloging to electronic-based.

Jim was a member of First Church of Christ, Scientist, and served in many capacities. He served as First and Second Reader, chaired the lecture committee, was an usher, distributed periodicals all over Billings and served in the downtown reading room.

Jim's passions were classical/jazz music, reading and spending time with his children and two granddaughters. He loved hiking and biking. His favorite vacation spots were Yellowstone National Park, Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. Since retirement, he spent time with his two granddaughters, Makayla and Sophie, attending their gymnastics practices and swimming lessons. He looked forward to and enjoyed the weekly dinners with Matthew. He also did some volunteering for The Salvation Army and then with Family Services.

James is preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Doris; and his wife, Christine. He is survived by his children, Jane Kelly and her husband Josh; and Matthew Peters; and granddaughters Makayla and Sophie, all of Billings.

Visitation will be from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 12, and Wednesday, April 13, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary, 1001 Alderson Ave.

Memorial services will be at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 14, at Michelotti-Sawyers.

Interment will be in Yellowstone Valley Memorial Park.

Memorials can be made to the Billings Public Library or the American Cancer Association.

Condolences may be made online at www.michelottisawyers.com.