Peggy M. Lewis

Memorial contributions may be given to the American Cancer Society. Peggy Mae Bryant Lewis was the first child of Ben Henry Bryant and Velma Lee Norton Bryant, born on November 12, 1928 in Paynesville, Missouri. She grew up in Paynesville with two sisters, Billie Jean and Sara. Peggy graduated from Clarksville High School in 1945, then attended the Chilocothe Business College. Peggy's first job was in St. Louis, Missouri, at the Pierce Building at Fourth and Pine (currently the Adam's Mark Hotel). While living at the Evageline Center for women, she became friends with Faye Lewis and was introduced to Faye's brother C.R. Lewis. Peggy and C.R. were married in Donaldsonville, Georgia, August 23, 1948. They enjoyed a strong committed marriage for nearly 59 years. They had four children, Terry, Bryan, Elaine and Kelly. When Elaine developed complications from diabetes, Peggy devoted over 12 years of her life caring for her elder daughter. Peggy was both an interesting and an interested person. She loved to read books and learn about new places; in fact, one of her favorite TV shows was the "Amazing Race". She also enjoyed working crossword puzzles (in ink!), collecting Beanie Babies and Barbie Dolls, and crocheting. She loved counted cross-stitch, and won first prize for her peacock picture in 2001 St. Charles Counted Cross-Stitch Show. Peggy was not afraid to attempt new challenges. She purchased a Personal Computer and took computer classes at the Senior Center. Peggy played and completed over 30, 000 Free Cell games. In the past year she purchased a digital camera and sent everyone digital pictures! Her email would say, "I saw this bird this week, I never saw on like this before, I don't know what it is, but I thought it was pretty". Peggy took great pride in her personal appearance. Her hair was always done, and her fingernails were always polished. She loved to shop-not just for herself, but for everyone else! However, Peggy's greatest love in life was her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. When one grandson commented, "Who would want a book as a present?", Peggy talked everyone into buying this grandson a book for Christmas and his birthday, and she put money in between the pages. Every grandchild and great-grandchild received a counted cross-stitch birth announcement and a crocheted afghan. Above all, Peggy was a kind and considerate person, who never spoke a single bad word about another living soul. Peggy's positive attitude about life is emphasized in her last words to the nurse, "Wasn't this a wonderful play?" And, yes, Mother your life was wonderful, thank you.