Heidi Jo Peterson

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Heidi thrived near the ocean's waves, finding delight in the sun's warmth and the simple joy of sand beneath her feet

Heidi Jo Peterson (née Dickman) was born on March 5, 1968, in Plantation, Florida. She grew up in Neponsit, New York, moved briefly to Houston, Texas, then moved to East Brunswick, New Jersey before finally returning to Houston as a teenager. From her first day in this world, she illuminated every space she entered. With a spirit that could not be contained by small moments, she brought both vivacity and warmth wherever her path led. On July 5, 2026, in Galveston, Texas, that vibrant light passed from this world, after a valiant albeit brief battle against lung cancer, but her light endures in echoes of laughter, stories retold, and love given without measure.  

Heidi’s life was painted with rich color—she was dazzlingly bright, wise beyond her years, and effortlessly vibrant. She never shied away from an adventure, especially when alongside Todd, her devoted husband. Together, they traveled near and far, savoring the stories that only the open road and distant beaches could offer. Heidi thrived near the ocean's waves, finding delight in the sun's warmth and the simple joy of sand beneath her feet. No matter where she was, she always made time to leave a room better than she found it—often with her unforgettable laugh ringing out and her quick wit catching all by surprise. Friends and family will remember the way she could find the funny and the good even in the most ordinary moment, ensuring those around her felt seen, included, and uplifted.

To everyone who knew her, Heidi was the one with the purest heart. She loved her family and friends fiercely, with every fiber of her being, welcoming each new acquaintance as if they were already part of her treasured circle. She was the steadfast co-pilot—whether on a cross-country adventure or just through life's daily triumphs and trials—always reliable, always ready for the next journey, and never a bit shy about calling someone out for stupidity. In every gathering, large or small, her humor was infectious, her laugh utterly contagious.

Heidi gave endlessly, but it was in her relationships that her legacy finds its truest meaning. Her son Cody once held the title of her proudest accomplishment, until the day her grandson Nolan arrived. “Savta” and Nolan shared a bond so deep and vivid it radiated from each embrace. And when little Evelyn joined their world, Heidi’s heart expanded tenfold. Time spent with her grandchildren was time Heidi treasured above all—moments of love, laughter, and gentle wisdom passed from one generation to the next.

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she could find the funny and the good even in the most ordinary moment

She is survived by her loving husband Todd (whom she always referred to as her soulmate) and her cherished son Cody (wife Ashley). Her grandchildren, Nolan and Evelyn, will carry forth her stories and strength, always guided by Savta’s love. Her sisters, Nanci Loren and Ivi Brenner(husband Kevin), along with her nephews Michael and Lauren Brenner, remain to recount the adventures and warmth Heidi brought to their lives. She is also mourned and celebrated by her brother Barat Dickman (wife Jennifer), her nephew Jordan and niece Mira Dickman, longtime family friend Pamela Mendez, as well as several close friends and her fur-son Conn.

Heidi’s presence is deeply missed by all who came into her orbit. We also remember those who have gone before—her beloved father Dick Dickman, her mother Ileane Barat Dickman, and her sister Sindi Dickman—reunited now in memory and love. Longtime family friends Adam Halperin and Luciano Mendez were sure to welcome Heidi's arrival on the other side, as it was rare she could enter anywhere without her light being felt by everyone.

In recalling Heidi Jo Peterson, we remember a woman whose joy was matched only by her generosity, whose laughter lingers long after her words have faded, and whose love remains the truest souvenir of an extraordinary life. Her luminous spirit will be missed, yet in every beach breeze, in every spontaneous adventure, and in every genuine smile shared among those she touched, she lives on.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 15th at Brazos Bend State Park's Dining Hall located at 21901 FM 762, Needville, Texas 77461 from 2-5pm.  Note the park has a $ 7 entry fee per person for every one 13 and up.  Please dress casually and preferably wear something tie-dyed.  No floral deliveries should be sent to the funeral home or the park.  Contact Jame Ray Fort if you have floral or plant delivery.