Peggy will be remembered as a one-of-a-kind wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, baker and fixer of all things. At the center of Peggy’s life was her marriage to Jay. Together, they shared 4 children and 57 years of love, laughter, and adventure, from Ireland to Siesta Key. A lifelong resident of the Beverly neighborhood, she was known for her unstoppable energy, her beautiful garden, and her blueberry muffins.
Peggy had many accomplishments in life, including over 25 years as a teacher and principal in the Chicago Public Schools. As the principal of Dawes Elementary School, she built a community of committed educators and friends and was a force of nature in advocating for thousands of children. But she was most proud of her role as grandma to the Magnificent 7, her brilliant grandchildren who, as she was happy to inform you, were more wonderful than yours.
Peggy is survived by her loving husband and best friend, James C. Lalley. Beloved mother of Jim (Ana) Lalley, Kathleen (Tom Hogan), Mary (Tim McNerney), and Sarah Lalley. Adored Grandma of the Magnificent 7- Maggie, Jane, Pete, Henry, Quin, Maeve and Finn and 2 granddoggers, Nelly and Cookie. Dear sister of Mary (late Bill) Groskopf, Jack (Kathy) Gallagher, Trish (Mike) Kominiarek, Sharon Valente, and the late Joan Gallagher. Sister-in-law of Bernadine (late Ken) Azukas, Patty (Bill) Kirch, and Geraldine (Byron) Clark. Devoted aunt to many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. She was a friend to all.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her favorite charity, RUN LIKE A CHEETAH, a nonprofit that empowers children through running. www.runlikeacheetah.org
Family and friends will gather for visitation at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 4727 West 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, IL on October 29, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
A Prayer Service will take place at Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 4727 West 103rd Street, Oak Lawn, IL on October 30, 2026, from 9:15 am to 9:30 am.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St Barnabas Catholic Church, 10134 S Longwood Dr, Chicago, IL on October 30, 2026, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am.
Committal Service will follow at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleum, 6001 W 111th St, Alsip, IL.
