Margaret ‘Peggy’ Leeds, 89, died peacefully at home surrounded by family Saturday, April 22, 2017. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister—always putting the needs of others before her own.
Peggy was born June 16, 1927, in Brooklyn, N.Y., to the late Thomas and Gertrude Dunne. She attended PS 154 and St. Stanislaus Kosta Catholic Church in Brooklyn.
In 1946, on a snow-covered sidewalk in Brooklyn, she met Marion Leeds, a ‘handsome sailor,’ whom she later married. Marion was transferred several times before he retired in 1962, and Peggy made each new place feel like home. In 1956, they settled in Virginia Beach and were together for over 60 years.
A devout Catholic, she was an active and dedicated member of St. Matthew Catholic Church for over 55 years. Over the years, she was a member of the Parish Council, Legion of Mary (auxiliary), Sunshine Club, and Thursday morning Bible study. She was a member of the sewing group and worked at the annual church bazaar, Bingo, and visited the sick. She was one of several parents to organize the first student youth group.
While her daughter attended St. Matthew School, she volunteered as a teacher’s aide, playground monitor, chaperone, assistant Brownie troop leader, and supported the first girls’ basketball team. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary, VFW Post 4809, until Marion died in 2007.
Peggy enjoyed talking on the phone—sometimes for hours, watching Big Bang, Lawrence Welk, British comedies, feeding her backyard birds and spending time with her family and friends. She was witty and maintained her sense of humor until the end.
She is survived by her daughter, Mary Ann (Glenn); granddaughter, Sarah; sister, Trudy; and many nieces, nephews and friends.
There will be a viewing at St. Matthew Catholic Church preceding the funeral Mass Thursday, April 27, beginning at 10 a.m., followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow. Interment will be held in Colonial Grove Memorial Park.
The family would like to thank Sentara Hospice and all those who helped with her care.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Matthew Catholic Church or the Virginia Beach SPCA.
Condolences may be offered to the family at hollomon-brown.com.
