Peggy Jo Sides

Peggy was born on September 30, 1930, to Wesley and Cordie Mae Chandler. She attended Van High School where she was a majorette and was voted “Miss Van High School” during her senior year in 1948. She continued her education at East Texas State University in Commerce, earning a Bachelor of Science degree, and later received her Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas Eastern University in Tyler.

Peggy married Willard Hudson Sides in 1949, and the couple had five children. Peggy was a devoted mother, an amazing cook, and loved sewing and gardening. Her children recall her reading the Bible to them every night. She also devoted many years of her life to teaching and counseling at Murchison and Martin’s Mill Independent School Districts, where she was deeply loved and respected by students and colleagues alike. She always spoke fondly of the children she taught. Even years after her retirement, former students would stop by just to visit and share fond memories of their time with her. Many recalled that she had been their favorite teacher, and some still remembered the songs they sang in fourth grade.

Above all, Peggy’s life was defined by her deep and abiding love for the Lord. A longtime member of Holly Springs United Methodist Church, she faithfully participated in ministry, often leading the singing and teaching Sunday School and was always ready to help where needed. Peggy was a firm believer in the power of prayer, faithfully praying for friends, family, and others who had not yet come to know Christ. Even in her later years, her witness continued to touch the lives of those who cared for her, including one young woman whose life was transformed after accepting Christ. That woman later published a book about her journey and dedicated it to Peggy in recognition of her profound influence.

Peggy’s life was a beautiful testament to faith, love, and service to others. She will be remembered not only for the many lives she touched as an educator and counselor, but also for the steadfast faith and quiet encouragement she offered to all who knew her.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, Wesley and Cordie Mae Chandler; her husband, Willard Hudson Sides; husband Neal Hayes; and her sons, Michael Sides, Marcus Sides, and Maury Sides; sisters Patsy Ruth Tiller and Mary Nell Shaw; brother Willie Don Chandler.

She is survived by her daughter, Merryl James and husband, Roy; her son, Matthew Sides; and her grandchildren, Shane Sides, Kasey Lehn, Josh Sides, Jessika Meeker, Sarah Jo Dean, Rebekah James, Marlon Sides, and Brandt Sides. She also leaves behind 13 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, one brother-in-law Bob Shaw, and numerous nieces and nephews, and many other beloved family members and dear friends.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Holly Springs United Methodist Church in Martin’s Mill, Texas. Visitation will be held prior to the service. Interment will follow at Holly Springs Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that those wishing to honor Peggy consider doing so with a memorial contribution to Holly Springs UMC Blessings Barn Ministry which also supports Michael’s Table. Contact for donation: 469.955.6358.

Pallbearers will include Peggy’s grandsons and great-grandsons.