John Thomas (“Tom”) Peters died Friday, January 9, 2026 at Sullivan County Health Care in Unity, NH following several years of declining health. He was born on March, 18, 1943 in Hartford, CT, the son of Robert E. Peters and Mary Catherine Rust.

Although he was born in Hartford, Tom was raised in Rocky Hill, CT. He graduated in 1961 from Rocky Hill High School and entered Saint Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield, CT that same year. Following graduation from the seminary, Tom attended Saint Paul University (federated with the University of Ottawa) in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada from 1965-1970, earning a Baccalaureate in Theology, Cum Laude.

He was ordained a Roman Catholic priest for the Diocese of Manchester, NH on December 9, 1972 and served in the following parishes: Mary Queen of Peace, Salem, NH, Saint Christopher, Nashua, NH, and Saint Kieran, Berlin, NH. During his tenure at these locations, he wholly embraced the community. Tom served and ministered as an active partner in fellowship with many of his parishioners who remained constant and beloved friends.

Following his marriage in 1992 to Patricia Gagliuso, he and his family relocated to Franconia, NH where he worked for several years in various and sundry roles at local nursing facilities and addition treatment centers dedicating his efforts towards improving the lives of those he touched. Additionally, Tom served as interim pastor at the Community Church of Christ in Franconia and soon thereafter, as pastor at the Bath Congregational Church in Bath, NH where his ministry continued.

True to form, Tom was usually quick with a joke and enjoyed a good laugh which provided opportunity for many additional conversations. This came quite easily for he had may interests, passions, and skills ranging from music and theater to cooking and trivia of all sorts. He loved people and their stories. He enjoyed talking and listening to others, helping others with their problems and widening the circle. Those who knew Tom can take comfort in knowing his legacy remains through the lives he touched and the people he helped.

Tom is predeceased in death by his brother Robert F. Peters, sister Mary Ellen Peters, and half-brother Robert J. Peters. He is survived by his brother Charles (Bev) Peters, sister -in-law Carol Peters, sister-in law Jean Peters, several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tom leaves his spouse, Patricia, three sons Nicholas (Casey) Sylvain, Nathan Sylvain, and Matthew Sylvain and grandchildren Gweny and Caity Sylvain.

SERVICES: A private Celebration of Life is planned this Spring at the convenience of the family.