Richard “Dick” Allan Peck, Ph.D., 82, of Morganton, NC passed away Saturday, April 25, 2026. Born on December 17, 1943, he was the son of the late Richard and Janet Peck. Dick was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Morganton where he served as a Deacon, Clerk of Session, Sunday School Teacher and was a part of the volunteer maintenance crew, the “God Squad,” fixing things around the church. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from Heidelburg College in Tiffin, Ohio and later earned a Masters and Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dick enjoyed hiking, biking, camping, fishing, gardening and sharing crops with his friends, and watching UNC and Carolina Panther Football. He was an avid golfer and served on the Board of Directors at Mimosa Hills Country Club. He loved going on golfing trips with his buddies. After retirement, Dick supervised student teachers at the University of Akron.
He served on the Board of Habitat for Humanity. He was a lifelong member of the Morganton Lions Club, and was Vice President of The Residence Association at Grace Ridge.
Dick is survived by his daughter, Amanda Miller Peck; brothers, James Peck (Patty) and William Peck (Jacquline); brothers-in-law, Jeffrey S. Miller (Carroll Ann), Joseph M. Miller (Sally); sister-in-law, Margaret Miller; bonus daughter, Sarah Mooney (Chris); special friend Susan Rowland and her children; and a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and grand dogs, Dutchess and Bentley.
In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Elizabeth “Quay” Peck.
The family will receive friends from 5pm until 7pm, Friday, May 1, 2026 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A funeral will be held at 11am, Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Grace Ridge in the Ervin Room. Entombment will follow at Burke Memorial Park Mausoleum.
Flowers may be sent to Sossoman Funeral Home or memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity or to Amorem Hospice in honor of Dick.
The family would like to say a special thanks to Britt, Lily and Cheslea from hospice and the nursing staff at Grace Ridge for their care.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Tribute Wall
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I knew Dick through golf, Habitat for Humanity, and Grace Ridge - always a sweet, soft-spoken gentleman with a quick smile. I loved the anecdotes about him at today's funeral!
Dear Family, I worked with Dr. Peck for many years in the Burke County Public Schools. He was always professional and kind in each of his educational endeavors. Dick was admired by the students and staff with whom he worked. Please accept my sincere condolences. I will be praying for God's comfort and grace as you deal with Dick's passing. Susan Pollpeter
Our deepest condolences. Grace Ridge has lost another saint, but heaven has a home for him. I so loved Dick and his approach to life. So many of the writings on the memory wall witness to his character and integrity. He had a wonderful sense of humor. Heart felt love to the family and Susan Roland as you all navigate the grieving process.
So sad to see the passing of Dr Peck. I worked with Dr Peck when he was working with the Burke County Schools Administration. Dr Peck was a very nice person, always polite and friendly. My deepest sympathy to the family.
I can only imagine how magnificent heaven is <3
Mandy, We miss both your parents. Dick regularly reminded me about Presbytery's Property & Equipment Committee I recruited him to chair. With my assurance that it would take little of his time and effort, he accepted only to have to manage the sale of two different churches and all their property during his tenure. He never let me live this down! But always with a laugh. Our prayers are with you. Otis & Linda Wilson
Jim and I are so thankful to have worked with Dick in different capacities; Jim worked with Dick at Central Office, and then became Susan’s principal at Mull School. We will miss your humor at Grace Ridge. So glad we came to see you in Hospice Care and share a few thoughts. Love to his daughter and Susan Rowland for keeping us informed. Love, Jim and Susan
Thank you for loving me anyways RP. I treasure my memories with you ! Love Lois