Audrey Petersen, remembered as a beloved individual, dies as a result of domestic violence.

Sorting through an array of craft supplies, overflowing drawers of nail polish, and well-stocked cabinets filled with first aid kits, Audrey Petersen’s daughters experienced an emotional mix of nostalgia and grief as they sorted through their late mother’s belongings. Each item, from self-help books to occasion-specific greeting cards, evoked memories that sparked laughter and tears, reminding them of the love and warmth that their mother had infused into their lives. Petersen passed away on February 9, 2024, at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy as one of many victims of domestic violence in Florida in recent years.

Born in 1962 in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Petersen cultivated a vibrant home filled with family photographs, seasonal flowers, and the lingering scent of baked goods. Her living space reflected her vivacity and welcoming spirit. Petersen was known for her kindness, often opening her home to those in need during the holidays and demonstrating a profound compassion for all living beings. Her nurturing nature inspired her youngest daughter, Kelly, to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

Petersen’s professional life as a nurse at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg was marked by fierce dedication to her patients. She excelled at coordinating complex patient care, never forgetting the important details, such as her patients’ birthdays and pets’ names. Her advocacy for her patients often meant engaging in intense negotiations with insurance providers to secure necessary treatments, a testament to her commitment to their well-being.

The late nurse found joy in the small details of life, whether in the flutter of butterflies in her backyard, enjoying casual meals, or sharing laughter with friends during weekly gatherings. Her love for creativity was evident in her homemade meals and projects, including meticulously crafted Halloween costumes and baked goods prepared from scratch.

Although Petersen was outspoken and firm in her beliefs, her infectious laughter and vivacious spirit continue to resonate with her daughters. As they reminisce about their mother, her legacy lives on, echoing in the warmth of their shared memories. In a poignant reminder of her ability to connect people, a gathering of neighbors and friends took place to open a time capsule that Petersen had helped create when her daughters were young, further illustrating her enduring impact on her community.