Peggy Hendricks Whittington

Born in Pampa, Texas to Beaulah and Thomas C. Hendricks, she later moved to Kilgore, Texas, where she established her reputation for high standards and dedication to her work.

While she was in high school there, she was active in sports, debate, vice-president of her sophomore class, and instructor in riding classes, one of her lifelong passions.

Peggy continued her interests at TSCW now TWU, where she graduated with honors with a B.A. and a B.S. in pre-med fields. She received many awards at TSCW including being named to Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges in 1947, vice-president of her senior class, Aggie Sweetheart of 1946, Redbud Princess, and beauty nominee for two years.

Peggy's adventurous life continued after her marriage 56 years ago, when she began raising her family and traveling with her husband on Army assignments that included Japan, Spain, Mexico, Germany, Ethiopia and Italy.

Among the "highlights" of her life were camping with a herd of stampeding hippos, surviving a foreign revolution, and providing health care to poor Africans.

Upon retirement in San Antonio and until her health declined, Peggy stayed active with travel, including a trip down the Amazon River, tennis and work with the Alamo Arabian Horse Association.

Known for her humor, friendliness and talent, her friends also frequently commented "she was a really tough lady," in describing her personal fortitude. This full life was made complete with the love and devotion she dedicated to her family.

Survivors include husband Col. Ret. Jere O. Whittington; brother, Curry Hendricks, Horseshoe Bay, TX; daughters, Jere and husband, Al DePratt, Columbus, GA, Anne Whittington, San Antonio, TX, Katy and husband, Paul Gembarowski of San Antonio, TX; son, John O. Whittington and wife, Denise, Evergreen, CO; four grandchildren another on the way, and three great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials in Peggy's name be made to San Antonio Animal Defense League, 11300 Nacogdoches, San Antonio, TX 78217, or a charity of choice.