U.S. Army Chaplain
From a Mother’s Point of View:
Every since he was about 5, he loved to fish. I would make him dough balls and he would go to the pond behind our house and be gone all day fishing. He never kept them, just like to catch and release.
December 4, 2023 started like most of my days. I had Bible and devotion time in the morning and then went about my day. I received a call from my “daughter” Jessie around 6:30 pm saying that John was missing. My last text to her was I will try and call him… but as soon as I sent that at 6:57 pm, she called to say that they had found John’s body and that he had died by suicide.
John left behind a family who loved him deeply, along with countless others who valued and cared for him. Though he may not have realized how many lives he touched, his absence resonates profoundly. We are left to gather the pieces, weaving them into a beautiful tapestry of memories and purpose. We will share his story, honor his spirit, and use his journey to bring awareness to suicide, offering hope and support to other Veterans facing similar struggles.
My faith in God is what sustains me on this journey. I am grateful that God has placed many in my life since John died and opened doors to talk with them about suicide.
In this earthly life, our questions may never be answered, but we can ask the Lord to help us through our grief. Although He may not provide the answers we long for, He will strengthen us to bear our terrible load with grace. He is a Shepherd who understands even the sadness of suicide and lives to bear it alongside all who grieve.
John was a Chaplain for the U.S. Army and deployed to combat zones in support of his troops.
Susan Peterson, John’s mother is now a coach with Healing the Hero, healing others on our mission.
SUSAN PETERSON
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