Peggy Joyce McQueen (Smitherman)

Peggy Joyce (Smitherman) McQueen, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 14, 2024, one week shy of her 94th birthday. Born on November 21, 1930, in Hamilton, Ohio, she lived a life filled with warmth, creativity, and an extraordinary love and unwavering devotion to her family.

Peggy was the beloved wife of the late W. Donald McQueen, with whom she shared a lifetime of adventure. Together, they made homes in 27 locations across the globe, embracing each move with optimism and wonder. Wherever life took them, Peggy ensured their home was a sanctuary of love and comfort, reflecting her steadfast commitment to family. 

A feisty redhead with quick wit, playful humor, and an indomitable spirit, Peggy brought joy and beauty to the lives of all who knew her. An artist at heart she created stunning stained-glass pieces and crafted countless treasures with her knitting needles. Her kitchen was a place of magic, where culinary delights became expressions of love that nourish both the body and soul, and she passed on her kitchen wisdom to her children, equipping them with skills to carry through life.

Peggy was a dedicated Scout leader, a supportive sports mom, and a master organizer. Her meticulous chore charts, while sometimes met with teenage groans, taught her children valuable life skills, including cooking, cleaning, and doing laundry prior to leaving home for college and careers.

Family camping trips were another opportunity for Peggy to instill a sense of responsibility and teamwork in her children. She would organize the campsite, plan the meals, and delegate tasks to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The kids would work together in an assembly-line fashion to wash and rinse dishes, fostering a sense of camaraderie and cooperation.

While Peggy's life was filled with joy, it was also marked by sorrow. The loss of her son, David, and granddaughter Heather, were profound griefs that she carried with grace and strength. Even in the face of adversity, she found ways to celebrate life and spread love.

Peggy leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and creativity. She will be deeply missed by her sister, Faye Allen (Somerset, KY), her children: Cindi Dunn (Duane) of Wamego, Kansas, Dennis McQueen (Beth) of Leander, Texas, Linda Arroyos of Houston, Texas, and Susan Nye of Houston, Texas. Her spirit will also live on in her twelve grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren who will honor her memory and carry forward the values she so lovingly imparted.

A private service for Peggy and her husband’s interment of ashes will be held later in Indiana, honoring and celebrating their lives and the legacy of love they leave behind.