Jude Sullivan Peters, age 11, of Charlotte, North Carolina, went peacefully to be with Jesus on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy far greater than words can fully capture.
A celebration of Jude’s beautiful life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at The. Family and friends are invited to gather in reme10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., andballoon release in honor of Jude’s love fo
Jude was born on April 17, in Charlotte, to Hannah Collins Peters andSullivan “Sully” Peters. Though his time on earth felt far too brief, Jude’s life was filled with unmistakable purpose — marked by courage, tenderness, faith, and a radiant joy that forever changed everyone who encountered him.
From his very first moments, Jude showed the heart of a warrior. His strong newborn cry was just the beginning of a life lived boldly and bravely. Diagnosed as an infant with Rhizomelic Chondrodysplasia Punctata (RCDP) — a rare, life-limiting genetic condition — Jude never allowed his diagnosis to define him. Instead, he authored his own story. Known affectionately as “Super Jude,” “Joyful Jude,” and “Brave Little Warrior,” he became a living testimony to perseverance, faith, and what it truly means to be deeply loved.
Jude communicated in his own beautiful ways — through expressive eyes, gentle smiles, and sweet sounds and gestures understood best by those closest to him. He possessed a rare gift for bringing people together. His life sparked an extraordinary outpouring of love that extended far beyond his home and community. Thousands followed his journey, forming what became lovingly known as “Jude’s Tribe.” His impact reached national media, including The New York Times, Fox News journalist David Sentendrey, and Molly Grantham’s Molly’s Kids — storytellers who soon became family.
Jude delighted in the simple wonders of life: balloons floating toward the sky, twinkling lights, music and dancing, warm cuddles, and the companionship of his beloved puppy friends, Archie and Betty. These small joys reflected the light Jude carried into the world — a light that continues to shine.
Jude is survived by his devoted parents, Hannah Katelyn Collins Peters and Sullivan Thomas (“Sully”) Peters; his grandparents Darla and Keith Collins of Charlotte and Judith and Craig Peters of North Wilkesboro; and his great-grandparents Tommy and Delano Johnson. He is also survived by his loving aunts and uncles: Amber Rhodes (Benjamin), Ashton “Sissy” Roland (Aaron), Jennifer Hamby (Brandon), Stephen Peters (Kayla), Sean Peters, and Craig Peters Jr. (Roxanne).
He will forever be cherished by his cousins Everett, Teddy Sullivan, Eloise, Penny, Henry, Oliver, Tommy Jude, Stevie, Liliana, Oakland, Charlotte, Ari, and Piper, along with many extended family members, fellow Rhizo Warriors, their families, and dear friends who loved him deeply.
Jude was preceded in death by his great-grandparents J.B. and Arliss Murrell; Thomas and Beatrice Peters; Dianne Brown; James Sullivan; Sherrill Mason; Eugene Malcolm Collins III, and the many Rhizo Angels who welcomed him home at heaven’s gates.
The Peters family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate medical teams and caregivers at Levine Children’s Hospital (Charlotte), A.I. duPont Children’s Hospital, Rhizo Kids International, Med-Life Discoveries, and Children’s Harbor. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering love provided strength, comfort, and hope throughout Jude’s journey.
Flowers are welcome. Memorial donations may also be made in Jude’s honor to Rhizo Kids International, continuing the legacy of love, advocacy, and hope that Jude so beautifully embodied.
Though Jude’s days were few, his impact is eternal. His joy was contagious. His courage was undeniable. And his love will live on — always. 💙
