Obituary

Obituary

News 2005
Homer Peabody, M.D., USA passed away December 16, 2005, in San Diego, CA. He led a fulfilling life of service and dedication to excellence in medicine and social responsibility. Homer, born in 1919, hit the ball squarely with a concentration of eyesight and strategy that always resulted in superior marks. Homer lived a very productive 88 years. His formal education included Harvard U., Columbia Medical School, Mass. General Hospital, and Mayo Clinic (Internal Medicine). He has been missed at WMTS for the past few years due to failing health yet his creative spirit has remained through his assistance up to the end in planning for the 2007 hosting of WMTS at! his “baby” the Barnes Tennis Center where youngsters of all walks can expand their education in a student-friendly environment. Those wishing to recognize Homer’s life through financial donations are directed to the Youth Tennis San Diego Foundation, 4490 West Point Loma Blvd, San Diego, CA, 92107, home of the Barnes Tennis Center.

Below is a letter written from Dr. Stanley McCampbell, M.D. to Homer's wife Betty.

Dear Betty,

I was saddened to learn from Betty Olsen that Homer had passed away.

I know that there is nothing that I can say to make you feel better, but hope to vent some of my angst by writing.

You and Homer are some of the finest people I have ever know. Homer was a giant of a man in stature and also in respect from his fellow man. He was born to leadership, living a long and productive life and during his whole life went about doing good. No higher calling comes to mind.

You must be very proud of his life as a scholar, doctor, civic leader, athlete, organizer and friend of mankind. He was unequaled in all of the above by any of my other friends.

I have very fond memories of our travels with you and Homer both here and abroad, especially Japan, China, Austria, Sweden, Tampa, Fort Worth, and all the others.

I remember with awe the excellent meeting of WMTS that you and Homer organized in San Diego. It is still, in my opinion, the best meeting of WMTS admitting some strong second place contenders.

In Bastaad, Sweden Bill Drake set it up that I would play Homer in a practice match. I thought that his sore knee would help me if I moved him about the court. Instead, Homer moved me around the court, toying with my weaknesses, and after one set had completely worn me out. I made Bill take over for me to finish the match.

I will make a donation to Youth Tennis San Diego Foundation in Homer's honor. The Barns Tennis Center is a huge permanent jewel in Homer's crown.

Joan joins me in extending every good wish.

Sincerely,
S.