Cater Andrew Peoples

Cater Andrew Peoples, affectionately known by many as “Cowboy” passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the age of 85, surrounded by love. Born on April 21, 1941, in Camilla, Georgia, he was the son of Lucious Crawford and Sweetie Mae Peoples (Murry).

Cater’s early years in Junction City were marked by his remarkable athletic talents, showcased during his time at Junction City High School where he played football, basketball, and competed on the track team. His athletic talents extended into his twenties, leading him to the boxing ring where he distinguished himself, earning the prestigious Kansas City Golden Gloves title multiple times throughout the 1960s.

Fate played its hand one day when Cater’s path crossed with the beautiful Miss Lydia (Slone), whom he noticed sitting on her porch. A simple question about the neighbors blossomed into a lifelong connection, as he returned the next day on his bicycle to introduce himself and work up the courage to ask her on a date. The rest was history, and the two married in Junction City. They became members of Lighthouse Christian Fellowship Church of God in Junction City, where they remained members for three decades.

The embodiment of his nickname, Cater, was seldom seen without his signature cowboy hat and boots. He found joy in being outside tending to the yard, BBQing, and listening to old Motown music. He loved to watch Westerns, especially the timeless classics “Shane” and “Once Upon a Time in the West”, and if you had any sweets around, you could be sure he was first in line. Above all, Cater treasured his family, embracing the role of protector with a sharp wit, great sense of humor, hearty laugh, and infectious smile. His devotion to his grandchildren and loved ones remained unwavering, and he never took a moment spent together for granted.

Survivors include his children, David (Myra) Peoples of Topeka, Kansas, Anna (Charles) Stewart of Castle Rock, Colorado, Theresa Lake of Junction City, Kansas, and Robert (Marie) Brockish of Hutchinson, Kansas. He is also survived by his sister, Corinne Waddell of Alachua, Florida, brother, Lucious Crawford, of Albany Georgia, as well as 10 grandchildren, Alana Peoples, Damarus (Erin) Peoples, Javon Peoples, Kiana Stewart, Jalen (Savannah) Stewart, Marcus Stewart, Justin (Cristiana) Lake, Ashley Jimenez, Jaime Bell, Amber (Aaron) Delgado, and 18 great-grandchildren. All of whom will miss him very much.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his son-in-law Edward Lake, and his granddaughter, Shanice Brockish.

A memorial service and inurnment will take place at a later date and will be updated here. Please check back.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Heartland Worship Center, 1401 NW Harrison St, Topeka, KS 66608.

Cater Andrew Peoples leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength—a true cowboy in every sense, whose spirit will continue to live on within all who knew him.

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