Peggy C. Donovan

Born in Dudley, Georgia, in 1941, Peggy was the eldest child of Young and Mabel Chambless. She grew up alongside her siblings, Grady and Marcy, and attended high school in Dublin, Georgia.

Peggy went on to graduate from Furman University, where she majored in sociology. It was there that she met the love of her life, Danny, with whom she shared 61 devoted years of marriage.

Peggy began her professional life as a social worker, advocating passionately for underserved children. In 1974, she and her family relocated to Raleigh, where she became deeply involved in various social organizations. Later, she returned to the workforce as an educator, spending many cherished years at Aldert Root Elementary School. Working closely with her dear friend and “partner in crime,” Mary Davis, Peggy served first as a teacher’s assistant and later as the school librarian—a role perfectly suited to her lifelong love of books.

Shopping and travel were among Peggy’s great joys. She eagerly embraced opportunities to explore the world, making sure to see not only the famous sights but every shop along the way. When not traveling with Danny, she delighted in countless long weekends spent with a close-knit group of lifelong friends who shared her enthusiasm for shopping adventures. For many years, Peggy and Danny also treasured time spent at their beach house in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, where they loved hosting family and making lasting memories.

At home, Peggy was a gifted cook who carried on her family’s tradition of Southern culinary excellence. Her fried chicken, pimento cheese, and deviled eggs became legendary, and her recipes continue to be fondly remembered—and spiritedly debated—at family gatherings.

Peggy is survived by her beloved husband, Danny; her children, Susan and Michael; her daughter-in-law, Jamye; her grandchildren, Connor, Shae, and Ben; her brother, Marcy; and her sisters-in-law, Debbie and Mary Ellen.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Val’s Place for their tireless care and kindness, and to H3 Hospice for their support and guidance during Peggy’s final months.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Peggy’s memory are invited to make a memorial contribution to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org