Virginia M. Powell Peters King

Virginia M. Powell Peters King lived a remarkable and full life spanning 100 years. Born on August 18, 1926, in her grandparents’ home in Moscow, Idaho, she was the daughter of Judge Russell E. Powell and Agnes Powell. She spent her early childhood on the family farm in Richfield, Idaho, and in Jackson, Wyoming, before moving to Boise in 1941, where she attended Boise High School and Boise Secretarial School.

On June 20, 1942, Virginia married Harold J. Peters while he was serving in the military during World War II. During the war years, she followed Harold to various military assignments, including Walla Walla, Washington; Ashland and Medford, Oregon; Cheyenne, Wyoming; and Alexandria, Louisiana. Together, they were blessed with three children: Bonnie, Ronald, and John. Following the war, they returned to Boise, where they built their home and raised their family.

Alongside raising her children, she helped operate their business, Peters Auto Body Shop, serving as the bookkeeper for more than 35 years. She also dedicated nearly 30 years to public service with the State of Idaho, beginning in the Attorney General’s office before transferring to the Department of Lands, where she served as Principal Clerk in the Range Management Division. She retired in 1990, having built a life marked by commitment, responsibility, and service to others.

Virginia was a faithful member of the Christian Church for more than 70 years, serving in many capacities, including several terms as deaconess and as financial secretary. Her church was an important part of her life, and her faith provided a foundation for the love, kindness, and support she shared with her family and friends.

Virginia also gave generously of her time and talents through the Order of the Eastern Star. During more than 60 years of involvement, she served twice as Worthy Matron of Boise Chapter #65 and as Worthy Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter of Idaho during its 75th Anniversary Session in 1976–1977.

Following Harold’s passing in 1988, Virginia continued to remain active in her church and community. In 1992, she married Manuel J. King, an old friend from her hometown of Richfield. Their marriage brought her many happy years and expanded her family to include a stepdaughter, Theresa, and three stepsons, Frank, David, and Steven, along with their families.

Virginia found joy in life’s simple pleasures such as reading and crocheting. She loved the outdoors, especially boating, fishing, camping, and traveling. Virginia and Manuel enjoyed spending part of their winters in Arizona and sharing time with friends.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, Harold Peters and Manuel King, her daughter Bonnie Lawrence and son Ronald Peters. She is survived by her son John H. Peters and his wife, Carolyn; and her beloved grandchildren Shawn, Russell, Stephanie, Jason, and six great-grandchildren Shelby, Ashley, Johnna, Megan, Katelyn, and Brycen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Virginia’s name to Boise Chapter #65 of the Order of the Eastern Star, or to a charity of your choice.