Ben Sam Peden

Ben Sam Peden

August 13, 1937 – March 14, 2026

Ben Sam Peden grew up in Wells Station, Tennessee — a lean-to in the woods, no electricity, no running water, and an 8th grade education. His Grandaddy was Sheriff of Giles County during the Civil War, and Sam carried that heritage with him everywhere he went.

He settled in Hendersonville in the 1980s and built a life and a name in Middle Tennessee. He was known as one of the best-dressed men in Nashville — a fact anyone who crossed his path would tell you without being asked. He spent his career as a bug man, working in pest control from Florida to Tennessee, and helped build a company that still runs today. He was involved in politics and community, had opinions worth hearing, and moved through the world with the confidence of a man who had earned every bit of it.

He was married four times, twice to the same woman. He was, without apology, a ladies’ man — charming and the kind of company that made any room better. But the love of his life was Kathie Peden. He loved her so completely that her face is carved into his tombstone.

His only child was his daughter, Erica Brister, who carries his standards and his stubbornness forward every day. He is survived by his daughter Erica, son-in-law J.K. Brister, grandchildren Lovely and Daggert Brister, and his brother David Peden. He was preceded in death by his parents Katherine and Alex Peden, and his siblings Robert, William, Joseph, Dwayne, Barbara, Josephine, and Joyce Peden.

He grew up with nothing and left behind a legacy. He is at rest now, well-dressed as always, and finally reunited with Kathie — with the ashes of his beloved dog Trixie tucked between them, right where she belongs.

In Lieu of Flowers

The family invites you to honor Sam by supporting Hillsdale College, an institution he admired.

Donations may be made at hillsdale.edu