Peggy Jean Thornton

Peggy Jean Thornton, beloved widow, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love she so freely gave throughout her life. Born on March 6, 1946, to Mary and Carsie Gregory at her family home on Meridian Street in Nashville, Tennessee, Peggy entered the world as the spirited middle child of six—tiny in stature but mighty in presence.

Peggy was a force to be reckoned with. Though small, she carried a fierceness that was unmistakable. The energy in any room shifted when she walked in—her confidence undeniable, her beauty effortless, and her warmth inviting. She was someone people naturally gravitated toward, whether for conversation, comfort, or simply to share a moment of laughter.

Her life was rich with love, joy, and the kind of laughter that lingers long after the sound fades. Peggy provided what everyone needed most: a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, a warm bed during hard times, and advice that was as honest as it was heartfelt. She led by instinct and nurtured by nature, offering strength and tenderness in equal measure.

Peggy adored many things—horror movies, chi-chis, slot machines, and her famous potato candy—but nothing in the world compared to the love she held for her family. They were the center of her heart, the source of her pride, and the reason she fought so fiercely for the life she built around them.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Mary and Carsie Gregory; her siblings Butch Gregory, Donna Jackson (and spouse Harold Jackson); and her beloved husband, Roger Thornton, whom she has longed to reunite with since his passing.

Left to honor her memory are her siblings and their spouses—Denny and Paulette Gregory; Beverly and Jim Palazo; Vallie and Mike Rojas; Sam Gregory, her son and daughter-in-law Kenny and Patty Bain; her stepdaughter and her husband, Laura and Al Oliver; 8 nieces and nephews; 14 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and her lifelong friends Claire, Pat, Evelyn, and Ruth, who all loved her deeply and will feel her absence profoundly.

Peggy’s legacy is one of love, strength, humor, and unwavering devotion. She will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her and welcomed in heaven by those who passed before her.

Friends and loved ones are invited to join in celebrating Peggy’s extraordinary life and in supporting one another as we carry her memory forward.

Visitation will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, located at 1150 South Dickerson Road, Goodlettsville, TN 37072, on December 8, 2025, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, and again on December 9, 2025, from 11:00am to 1:00pm.

A graveside service will take place at the same location on December 9, 2025, at 1:00pm.