Victoria Ilene Peoples “VIP”, a beacon of joy and generosity, went to be with the Lord on October 2, 2025, just shy of her 26th birthday. Born on October 6, 1999, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Ed and Karen Peoples, she blossomed into a woman of big smiles and boundless love. Her life was cut short in State College, Pennsylvania, where she was surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Victoria, affectionately known by many as simply VIP or V, lived a life characterized by her loving spirit and her commitment to her Christian values. She was the cherished sister of Mitchell “MVP”, whom she loved spending quality time with laughing, exercising, and traveling adventures near and far. VIP proudly attended many extra-curricular activities, i.e. band, scouting, and PSU events. She was the adored granddaughter of Donna Kieni, with whom she eagerly anticipated virtual visits often. Grandmother rarely missed opportunities to watch her live stream church and Harmony theatre performances. Over the years, Victoria has cherished many visits with extended family—Uncle Alan Daum, Aunt Deb Thunberg, Uncle Tom Thunberg, Aunt Julie Scott, Uncle Chuck Scott, cousins Erica Thunberg, Kevin Thunberg, Kayla Scott, Christopher Scott, Brandon Scott, Emily Scott, Grampa Randall Reynolds. She’s was predeceased by grandparents Donald and Gail Daum, Uncle Joseph Peoples and Aunt June Peoples.. Her family was her stronghold, and she embraced every moment with them, leaving behind a legacy of precious smiles and memories.
A proud 2019 graduate of State College Area High School, Victoria’s presence was a testament to her resilience and determination. Despite the challenges posed by Prader-Willi syndrome, she approached life with a contagious and beautiful smile that could light up the darkest of rooms.
Victoria’s heart was as vast as her interests. She found immense joy in crafting Diamond Dots pictures, creating latch hook crafts, horseback riding, assembling jigsaw puzzles, and coloring pictures & wooden items. Her handcrafted gifts were tokens of her generous spirit, cherished with gleaming smiles by all who received them. Riding with her dad on the Harley was an adventure she looked forward to immensely, as it brought her closer to her father, nature and the pure freedom she so dearly loved. She cuddled, adored and cared for her cats, Mercedes, Benz, and Twister, enriching their lives. Her walks with friends were not merely closing exercise rings, but journeys filled with laughter and companionship.
Her competitive and team spirit shone brightly through her participation in Scouting and Special Olympics, where she excelled in track, bowling, and long-distance running/walking events. Victoria’s achievements in these areas were not just medals and accolades but were milestones of her perseverance and the joy she found in being part of a community that celebrated her abilities.
Victoria’s life was a living example of the Christian virtues of generosity, love, and friendliness. She embraced these qualities wholeheartedly, making them the cornerstone of her existence. Her ability to give so freely of herself, to love without reserve, and to befriend those around her was a true reflection of her faith in action. The world with “VIP” in it was brighter, happier, filled with hope and offered more opportunity than we probably deserved.
As we bid farewell to Victoria Ilene Peoples, we celebrate a life that, though brief, was abundant in the things that truly matter. Her spirit remains a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing her. Victoria’s memory will continue to inspire us to live with kindness, to cherish every moment, and to love with all our hearts.
Her earthly journey was cut short, but the impression she left on the lives of others will never be forgotten. Her journey on earth has ended, but her story will be told for generations, a tale of a soul who, in her unique way, reflected the love of Christ to all.
Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 2:00 -4:00 pm at Koch Funeral Home in State College, PA.
Funeral service follows at 4:30 pm at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 250 E. College Avenue, State College, PA.
Burial Service will follow at Pine Hall Cemetery, State College, PA.
May she rest in peace in the loving arms of our Savior, free from the Prader-Willi syndrome demons, leaving us with hearts full of gratitude for the time we were blessed to share with her.