This obituary is protected by copyright by MacCoubrey Funeral Home Limited. Proudly serving Northumberland County in the province of Ontario, Canada. All rights reserved.
On April 10, 2023, Peggy passed away peacefully. After her full life, rest was certainly in order. We already miss her terribly. Her kindness and unconditional love. Her smile. Her ability to see the good in everyone. Her resilience. Her hugs. We were all so lucky to have her in our lives.
If Peggy could tell her story in her own words, this is what she would say...
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My Children call me “Mum”: Amanda (Tony), Karin (Jay), Vanessa (Gilles), Inga, Gero (Joanne). My Grandchildren and Great Grandchild call me "Nanna": Nico, Marta & Gio. Milla, Wyatt, Theo & Beckett. Gavin, Carter & Blakely. Jayson (Maha) & Jessica. Matthew & Jeremy.
I weighed only 2 pounds when I was born in 1947 to Max and Dorothy Sheppard. I have always been a fighter.
I was an Air Force brat along with my sisters Karen and Claire, and my brother John.
I was a competitive gymnast and volleyball player, a talented equestrian rider (Dressage and Jumper) and a pretty darn awesome water skier.
When I was 28 years old, I was raising my 5 children while I co-ran our 100-acre family farm with 30 horses and 5 buffalo. I single-handedly ran the sleepover camp for 12 campers, including teaching riding lessons and providing all of the campers’ meals.
I carried the Olympic torch through the 1000 Islands for the 1976 Olympics on my horse, Irish Coffee.
I could rewire a lamp, refinish furniture, and take any found object and make it beautiful.
I raised my children mostly as a single mother. I taught them by example that they can do (or be) anything.
I always enjoyed ice-cold Coke, sunshine in the morning, fingernails polished red, dressing up (especially Sunday), Tim Hortons coffee, and turtles.
My creative talents include ceramic doll-making, macrame wall hangings, wool spinning and weaving, calligraphy, needlepoint, knitting, crocheting and sewing (from quilts to wedding dresses).
I had many fulfilling careers. I was Secretary to the Sheriff for Northumberland County. I was the School Secretary at CR Gummow PS in Cobourg. I was a Special Education Assistant at CR Gummow PS. I was a
salesperson at Four Corners and and Margles Ladies Wear in downtown Cobourg. I was a secretary at Kirby Vacuums in Oshawa. I was a co-owner and instructor at Valhalla Riding School in Gananoque. Most importantly, I was the Unofficial Foster Mother to every child in the neighbourhood, anywhere and everywhere we ever lived.
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Donations to the Hospital for Sick Children or the Canadian Cancer Society are appreciated. A small family gathering will happen when the days stay sunny and warm.
I can hear her voice so clearly, with it’s clever lilt saying my name and giving me that funny discerning look only she could give. Followed up by her soft but strong caramely chuckle replete with dancing eyes and a nose wrinkle. Held closely in my heart. Much love to all.
Lol, Uncle John, thanks for that. Good to hear that clumsy runs in the family
Peggy's passion as a young girl was horses. She had a shelf in her bedroom that held all kinds of plastic models if horses. And someone gave her a rather large, plaster, black horse that weighed probably twenty pounds and it sat on the floor so you could conveniently stub your toe.
Vanessa Karin and Amanda, So sorry for you loss, I have so many fond memories of your Mum- next door and summers in Gananoque. Such a kind and special lady, thinking of you all♥️
Peggy (my almost twin) was more than a sister, she was a true friend too. For five weeks every year we were the same age and it always felt special. We had so many laughs and conversations; from nail polish colours to politics. I loved all our years together. I miss her but she shine through in her children and grandchildren.
Vanessa and family- We are sorry for your loss. Thinking of you ❤️
My thoughts are with all of you, your mom was a strong independent woman, always kind and caring, she will be missed. Big hugs ❤️
Dear Peggy! I’ll never forget how you took me in and let me live with you. I remember you teaching me to put a lid on a pot while it boiled. You tolerated my angsty teen behaviour with kindness. You had mason jars as cups (a trend setter). You were mother to 3 beautiful humans who I hope to cross paths with someday soon. So much love to all of you. Sarah B
I loved Auntie Peggy as my aunt, but also when my mom died, (Karen) as another mom to me. She was always that. She raised strong, beautiful children, and was an inspiration. Love you Auntie Peggy, RIP
My sympathies and hugs to you all. The title "unofficial foster mother" rings true for me, as it reminds me of all the times back in high school I felt safe & secure in the knowledge that Peggy was watching over me and the other kids who came to hang out in her house (it was like there was a revolving door). She had such a kind and loving heart and was so smart and funny, it's no wonder we were always there! Sarah W
Thinking of Peggy's beloved daughters and their families at this difficult time and sending my deepest condolences. I worked with Peggy in the 90's at Court Services and all of the lovely things you said about her are 100 per cent true. She truly was such a great person and I enjoyed working with her very much. Your mom was a kind and generous lady, with much charisma. May the sadness you are feeling now turn to happy memories as time heals.
Vanessa, our sincere sympathy to you and your family. Kelly, Al, Abbey & Gord
Thinking of you all. Lots of love to you, Kerri & Shawn
We know how much your Mom/Grandma was loved and how she adored all of you. Thinking of all of you and hope the sweetest memories are the ones held close. xox... Tanya, Lee, Honour and Owen