Peter Ward Walcott

Peter Ward Walcott, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend, passed away on January 5, 2026, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Syracuse, N.Y., at the age of 77, with his family at his side.

Born in Little Falls, N.Y., to the late Gerald and Winona (Clifford) Walcott, Peter spent his early years in Fort Jackson, N.Y., and moved to Syracuse during his school years.

Peter earned a Master's Degree in Education and spent many fulfilling years as a teacher at Bishop Grimes School and Broome-Tioga BOCES in New York and Racine Unified School District in Wisconsin, where he inspired countless students with his enthusiasm for learning. Before his career in education, he worked for the United Way and community foundations for 35 years in Wisconsin, Nebraska, and New York. Throughout his career as an educator and administrator, he built lasting relationships with his students, co-workers, and their families and became a cherished figure in every community in which he lived.

Residing in Syracuse, Peter found joy in the simple pleasures of life-reading, listening to music, and traveling with his family. He was also an avid golfer and a lifelong Dodgers fan. He treasured time spent with his wife Kristin, children Jessica (Christopher) Murray (Clayton, N.Y.) and Nathaniel (Yva) Walcott (Los Angeles, Calif.), and granddaughter Aurora, creating memories that will remain forever in their hearts. He will also be remembered fondly by his extended family, including his sister-in-law Janet Walcott and many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by three brothers, Clifford, David, and Joel, and a sister, Valerie Brown.

In following Peter's wishes, his family will honor his life privately at this time, with a celebration of life to be held later this year. Arrangements are entrusted to Hammill Funeral Home in Winthrop, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to a local charity of your choosing.

Gone but never forgotten, Peter leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and learning that will echo through the lives he touched.