Peggy Chandler Somerville

Peggy Chandler Somerville passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, after a long struggle with health issues. She was 84 years old. Peggy was preceded in death by her first husband, Stanley L. Simon, to whom she was married for ten years, and her second husband, Harrison “Buddy” Somerville Jr., with whom she shared thirty wonderful years. She was born in Centralia, Illinois, to Emmett Ashley Chandler and Jewell Margaret Quinley Chandler.

A proud Texan through and through, Peggy spent her early years in West Texas before marrying and raising her family in Washington, D.C. She is survived by her daughters, Kelly Simon Scallon and her husband, Hugh E. Scallon, of Darien, Connecticut, and Chandler Simon of Bethesda, Maryland; her grandchildren, Whitney Frances Scallon and William Simon Scallon; her brother, Emmett Ashley Chandler II (Brenda) of Midland, Texas; her stepdaughter, Kimberly Somerville Bryant (Alan) of Wilmington, North Carolina; and her stepson, Harrison Somerville III (Janet) of Chester, Maryland. She was preceded in death by her stepdaughter, Susan Somerville, and her sister, Ann Chandler McInerney.

Having grown up in Texas, Peggy was equally at home cheering on the Odessa High School football team as she was dressed in a ballgown. Her Southern roots gifted her with warmth, wit, hospitality, and an unmistakable sense of style that served her well throughout her life in Washington. She worked at the Pentagon early in her career and dedicated countless hours to volunteer service at the organizations closest to her heart: her daughters’ schools—Stone Ridge Country Day School and the Connelly School of the Holy Child—as well as Adventure Theatre, the Diamonds and Daffodils Luncheon and Fashion Show, the Hoe ’n ’Hope Garden Club, and the American Heart Association, where she proudly chaired the Annual Heart Luncheon.

Peggy met the love of her life, Harrison “Buddy” Somerville Jr., and together they built a life full of joy, friendship, and celebration. Never one to miss a party, Peggy and Buddy were known for hosting lively gatherings, especially during summers at Shady Side, where they were engaged. Here she was surrounded by family and friends who came together for long, lazy days by the Bay. Her joyful spirit, generosity, kind heart and hilarious southern expressions made her beloved by all.

Peggy adored her dogs and cats, but was a true dog lover at heart. She treasured her family time in Rehoboth and Christmases in Connecticut all to be near her grandchildren. She often said the most important job of all was being a good mother - and that a good sense of humor really helps. Her quick wit was a hallmark. She was a devoted mother, a proud grandmother, wonderful aunt, protective sister and a loyal friend whose presence lit up every room. Peggy was, in every sense, a legend. Though her light has dimmed, her spirit will continue to shine in all who loved her.

A family burial will take place at Rock Creek Cemetery, followed by a reception of her life. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Purple Heart Foundation, P.O. Box 49, Annandale, VA 22003.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Enid L. Wilson, Sibo McHue, and the staff at Maplewood Park Place in Bethesda for their devoted care and companionship.