James D. Peters, a beloved and towering figure in both the spiritual and civil rights communities, passed away peacefully on May 10 at the age of 92 in Denver, Colorado. A man of profound faith, unwavering commitment, and enduring influence, James leaves behind a legacy that shaped not only his congregation at New Hope Baptist Church but also the broader arc of American history.
Born in 1933, James grew up during a time of significant racial tension and social transformation in the United States. From an early age, he felt the stirrings of a higher calling — one that would ultimately define the course of his life. Ordained as a minister in his youth, James went on to serve as the senior pastor of New Hope Baptist Church in Denver for more than five decades. Under his leadership, the church grew not just in numbers but in spirit and influence, becoming a cornerstone of hope, resilience, and activism in the community.
James D. Peters was not only a man of the cloth but also a man of action. His voice rang out in harmony with the nation’s greatest civil rights leaders, and his footsteps walked beside those who dared to demand justice. In 1963, he played a pivotal role in organizing the historic March on Washington, standing shoulder to shoulder with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other icons of the movement. That day, a generation heard a dream that would resonate across time, and James was one of the dedicated souls who helped bring that dream to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial.
His activism was not confined to distant marches or symbolic events — it lived in his day-to-day life. Whether he was counseling families in grief, mentoring young leaders, speaking truth to power from the pulpit, or advocating for change in city hall, James exemplified a fierce and compassionate form of leadership. He believed that faith must be lived, not merely preached — that love must act, and that justice must be pursued with both prayer and protest.
Throughout his life, James received numerous accolades and honors, though he never sought recognition. For him, the true reward was in the lives changed, the hearts lifted, and the communities strengthened. He was a father, a husband, a teacher, a mentor, and a friend to many. His humility, wisdom, and quiet strength were hallmarks of a life well-lived and deeply impactful.
This weekend, friends, family, and admirers will gather in Denver to honor and celebrate the life of this extraordinary man. The memorial service at New Hope Baptist Church — the very place he devoted his heart and soul — will be a time of reflection, gratitude, and deep love.
James D. Peters is survived by his loving family and a congregation that continues to carry forward the torch he lit so brightly. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit endures — in every act of kindness, every cry for justice, and every step taken toward a more equitable world.
May his memory be a blessing, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.
