Mr. Peter Doles

UTICA – Mr. Peter Doles, age 70, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in the comfort and dignity of his home, with his loving family at his side. Born in Utica on August 21, 1955, Peter was the son of the late Braxter Sr. and Mae Ruth (Williams) Doles. He attended Kernan School and was a proud graduate of Utica Free Academy. He furthered his studies at Syracuse University, where he majored in music and received a degree in human services. He also earned an electrical degree, simply for knowledge and his desire to always keep learning. He was once married to his high school sweetheart, the late Mary Frances “Cookie” Coney, and from that union came the blessing of two beautiful daughters, Rashida Jamila Doles and Sabrina Nicole Doles. He also had a loving relationship with Joanne Reed and, more recently, with the late Mary Allen. At one time, he held a position as a technician with General Electric on Bleecker Street. He later worked at St. Elizabeth Hospital as a surgical technician and as a nurse’s aide at various local nursing homes. He went on to serve as a residential counselor with Catholic Charities and, lastly, retired from UCP in the same role. Peter was a musician throughout his life. He loved playing the guitar, along with many other instruments, and took great pride in teaching loved ones how to play. Music was his greatest passion, and he especially enjoyed playing his guitar in his band, “The Boys Club.” Peter possessed a wicked sense of humor. His sharp wit and impeccable timing brought laughter to all who knew him. He enjoyed his weekly Sunday breakfasts, where he gathered loved ones and cooked for them. He was well known for his apple crisp French toast, deviled eggs, and shish kabobs. Above all, he loved his family—he didn’t always like them, but he loved them. Peter practiced the Muslim faith. He is survived by his daughters, Rashida Jamila Doles and Sabrina Nicole Doles; his loving grandchildren, Kweli Howard and his fiancée, Mya Gonzalez; Taniya Howard, a.k.a. his GeeGee; Zaafira A. Peak; Ajanae Doles; and Ariel Johnson. He is also survived by his sisters, Ruth Henderson and Patricia Ann Doles, with whom he shared a special closeness and whom he affectionately referred to as his special “Road Dog.” He also leaves his brother, Braxter Doles, Jr.; niece, Sharia L. Doles (favorite niece); nephew, Damien Crawford; Stephanie King (Stuff), whom he thought of like a little sister; and his lovely work daughter, Shana. Also surviving are his loving sisters, Carrie Hasting, Martha and Dennis Reddick, Louis Winfrey, Ellen and Major Crawford, and Dot Doles; and brothers, Marion Braxter Doles and Benjamin Franklin Doles. Peter also leaves many in-laws, special friends, and his fellow bandmates, especially acknowledging Stan Enoch, Richard Titus, Gene Walker, Jim Winston, and Alex. Special thanks to his landlord, Rob, who over the years became his good friend.

Mr. Peter Doles

August 21, 1955 - March 26, 2026