News Summary
Rev. Frances Jane Cobb Peel, a trailblazer in faith and social justice, passed away on February 7, 2025. Her celebrated life as a dancer, educator, and advocate for equity left an indelible mark on her community. With a strong commitment to social justice and community engagement, she impacted many lives through her dedication to service. A celebration of her life will take place on March 1, 2025, at the Outer Banks Presbyterian Church.
Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Rev. Frances Jane Cobb Peel
On February 7, 2025, the world said goodbye to a remarkable woman, Rev. Frances Jane Cobb Peel, who passed away in Nags Head, NC. Born on April 27, 1938, in Oklahoma City, OK, Frances’s life was a profound tapestry of artistic expression, faith, and social justice. She was the daughter of Francis Norton Cobb and Leona Jane Enders, both of whom are deceased, leaving behind a legacy honored by her family and community.
A Talent for Dance and Performance
Frances developed an early passion for dance, showcasing her talents as a classical and contemporary dancer with the esteemed Oklahoma City Ballet Company. This passion not only brought joy to her life but also allowed her to perform in local television productions, captivating audiences with her grace and skill. After an enriching period of performance, she transitioned to sharing her love of dance through teaching at Wellesley College, where her influence reached countless students.
Faith and Education
Frances pursued her studies earnestly, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Biblical History from Wellesley College and later a master’s degree in Christian Education from Union Theological Seminary in New York City. It was here she met her husband, Rev. Craig Lindley Peel, and they shared a union of love and service that lasted over six decades.
Dedication to Social Justice
The couple became instrumental during the civil rights movement in the 1960s, working in East Harlem, where Frances’s anger towards social injustice ignited a lifelong passion for equity and advocacy. Once her children had grown, she furthered her education at New York Theological Seminary, earning a Master of Divinity degree and venturing into teaching as an adjunct faculty member with a focus on the pivotal role of women in biblical texts.
Trailblazer in the Church
In 1989, Frances made history as one of the first women ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA). She impacted numerous lives through her roles as a teacher, pastor, and advocate. Active in educational settings, she taught special education in Connecticut and New Hampshire, and she was deeply invested in helping refugees displaced by the Cambodian civil war in the 1970s.
Community Engagement and Legacy
Frances served various churches in Massachusetts before anchoring herself at the Nashua Presbyterian Church in New Hampshire. Her leadership was crucial in the church’s expansion and the construction of its first building, leaving a significant mark on the community. Following her retirement in 2000 to the enchanting Outer Banks, she dedicated herself to raising her grandchildren and continued her service through community engagement.
A Creative Spirit
In her spare time, Frances expressed her artistic flair by creating jewelry from sea glass and painting vibrant scenes inspired by nature. Her love for travel took her to places like the Holy Land, Medjugorje, Croatia, and South Africa, where she forged invaluable partnerships and connections between congregations across continents.
Family and Remembering a Mother
Frances is survived by her four children, Chris Peel, Debi Mahler Baum, Jim Peel, and Sarah Rosenstein, and her nine beloved grandchildren, with an additional four great-grandchildren who carry forward her essence. Throughout her life, she emphasized selflessness and the importance of caring for those in need, leaving these values as her enduring legacy.
A Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life will be held on March 1, 2025, at the Outer Banks Presbyterian Church in Kill Devil Hills, inviting the community to join together in honoring this extraordinary woman. Following the service, a fellowship gathering will take place, further paying tribute to her remarkable contributions and indomitable spirit.
In accordance with her wishes, memorial contributions can be made to the Dare County Arts Council or OBX Room in the Inn, ensuring that Frances’s dedication to service and community continues long after her passing.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
A Heartfelt Farewell to Rev. Frances Jane Cobb Peel
Additional Resources
- Frances Peel Obituary 1
- Wikipedia: Frances Peel
- Frances Peel Obituary 2
- Google Search: Frances Peel obituary
- Frances Peel Obituary 3
- Google Scholar: Frances Peel
- Frances Peel Obituary 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Frances Peel
- Frances Peel Obituary 5
- Google News: Frances Peel
Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
