Peter Myers

Several local people from both political parties remarked about the life and character of Peter Myers last week after the former state representative died after a battle with cancer.

Myers, 81, served in the state House from 1999 through 2006 representing the 160th District, which included Scott County and parts of Cape Girardeau and New Madrid counties.

In addition to his service in the legislature, Myers, a farmer, was an advocate for agricultural issues through groups like the Missouri Farm Bureau. One of his more significant titles was deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a position he was appointed to during the Reagan administration.

Myers spent a good deal of time serving the Sikeston, Mo., area through civic groups and was described as a man of strong faith in God. He was known as someone who took things in stride and lived what he preached.

In 2006, as his time in the legislature was winding down, he told the Sikeston Standard Democrat that he hoped to be remembered as "straightforward, honest, ethical and Christian." It's clear this is how many remember this public servant who loved people and lived his life with purpose and conviction.