Margaret Esther Coryell

Margaret (Peg) B. Coryell, 95, of Plano, formally of Barefoot Bay and Melbourne, FL, and Peru, NY, died Saturday, December 15, 2012, at Sunrise of Plano. Born in Pennsylvania on October 29, 1917, Peg was the daughter of the late Stuart and Maude Brown.

A gifted student, Peg graduated from Cornell University in 1938. Shortly before her college graduation, Peg married the late G. Chester (Chet) Coryell, a union that lasted for 64 years until Chet’s death. Peg and Chet had three daughters: Suzanne McKinnon (Rev. Thomas, Jr.), Marietta, PA; Donna Riley, Plano, TX; Jane Acuňa, Huntington Beach, CA. The Coryell family settled in Peru, NY, a small community south of Plattsburgh, NY, where summers were devoted to boating on Lake Champlain. ‘The boat’ had many manifestations over the years; the last, christened ‘The High Cs’, was large enough to be a home to Peg and Chet for 3 months every summer and was a hub for family life and activities. Retirement to Florida brought with it a new home to decorate and enjoy, golf outings with friends and opportunities for extensive and adventurous travel that took the Coryells around the world. A creative and gracious hostess, as well as a talented cook, Peg hosted parties for every occasion throughout her long life. When the grandchildren were visiting, all looked forward to Mimi’s ‘happy hour’ filled with goodies which they felt had been created just for them. Drawn to Peg by her warmth, generosity and genuine interest in other people, a large circle of acquaintances remained treasured friends for life. Creative handmade cards and specially written poems marking notable milestones were gifts that were shared with family and friends. Collector’s quality needlepoint creations are part of Peg’s legacy, as well. Even as an elderly resident at Sunrise of Plano, Peg continued to acquire more friends and admirers with her good humor, ready smile and love for others. As a last tribute, a pink and blue balloon ‘send-off’ for Peg was shared with her friends and the staff at Sunrise.

A devoted life-long Christian, Peg had been an active member of the Peru (NY) Community Church, and the United Church (UCC) of Sebastian (FL). She also attended the Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Idialantic, FL. At the convenience of the family, a Memorial Service will be held for Peg along the shores of Lake Champlain.