Doris Marie Peplow

Born June 22, 1929 in Peoria County to John M. and Grace (Stovall) Whitney, she married Kenneth R. Peplow on October 25, 1947 in Pekin. Kenneth died July 10, 1981. She also was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Teri Uhler; a son-in-law, David Uhler; one brother, Carline Whitney and two sisters, Dorothy Bass and Margaret Joesting.

Surviving are her fiance', Bill Gupton of Clarksville, Tennessee; one daughter, Shari Lynette (Stan) Newell of Montgomery, Alabama; three grandchildren, Ric (Erika) Uhler of Alexandria, Virginia, Chandra (Will) Sullivan of Belleville and Christopher (Autumn) Newell of Montgomery, Alabama; three great-grandchildren, Kenny Uhler, Annabelle Grace Newell and Allianne Grace Newell. Also surviving are one sister, Lucille Rowden (age 104) of Pekin, and Bill's son, Wade (Nancy) Gupton and sons, Will Gupton and Robert Gupton.

Marie worked for the Red Cross in the mid 50's and early 60's. In 1964, Marie started her career in Civil Service at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. She proudly worked there for 30 years before retiring in 1994. Marie then started and ran her own business, Unique Yarns, of Clarksville, Tennessee, where she specialized in needle works, stitching, and teaching others. She would enjoy this greatly for 22 years, and again retired in 2016. She was also a member of the ANG, American Needlepoint Guild for over 20 years.

Marie had many passions in her well lived life. Marie worked very hard and was greatly dedicated to every task. Along with her jobs, she also worked on her farmland in Kentucky. Marie was a dedicated Eastern Star for 20 years, and earned the rank of WHP. She did however, love to play more than work. Marie could always be found amongst her family laughing it up and making sure everyone had a smile. She loved playing card games with family, cooking and canning, needle point and crocheting, reading, and traveling. She would get so tickled at something that she could scarcely talk, and she had the most infectious laughter. Her eyes often danced with amusement and at times had a twinkle of mischief. Marie was also the most gracious and gentle woman, and made sure anyone around her felt loved.

A celebration of life memorial service will be held when large gatherings are again possible. She will be laid to rest at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin, Illinois. Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Cancer Association, 1608 South Ashland Avenue #38269, Chicago, Illinois 60608.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com