Peggy Henderson, 97, of Galesburg, left her earthly home and loved ones on December 19, 2025. She was serenaded by the music of Glenn Miller and Vera Lynn just in time to join husband Bill for an evening of dancing and a reunion of friends and family.
Peg was born on June 16, 1928, to Floyd (Cotton) and Rose McElroy Pugh in DuQuoin, Illinois. The family moved to Rio, Illinois during her 6th grade year, she graduated from Rio High School in 1946. Mom said she fell in love with Bill Henderson because of his beautiful blue eyes and because he was so much fun! And boy, could he dance. The couple married on October 24, 1947, in Monmouth, Illinois, where they resided for a few years. It was a hardscrabble beginning, dad working at the Review Atlas until the GI bill expired, mom soon learning they were expecting their first-born, William. A move back to Rio followed, where jobs were found at the House of Good Foods and the Onion Factory. Who knew? In Rio, they welcomed son Robert and later, daughter Jeanne, a gift on mom’s 28th birthday. In 1964, the family moved to Oneida, Illinois. Mom was active in PTA and both enjoyed supporting their childrens’ school activities and sporting events, community events, and attending Oneida UMC.
A decade later, they moved to Galesburg, where they lived out their lives. By then, Mom was well known locally for her wallpapering abilities, with many homeowners commenting that when their wallpaper was removed, they found mom’s signature, the temperature and date it was hung. Always a hard worker, she never seemed to rest. Her home was immaculate and organized. She enjoyed cooking and baking, her Hershey syrup brownies were unmatched. Mom loved to read, spending hours at the library, always a book in progress at home. When she developed macular degeneration, those days came to an end, a loss that was especially hard. We discovered a way for her to listen to audible books though. She’d listened to an estimated 1100 books in recent years.
Mom and dad also loved to entertain, hosting friends for card games and conversation; in later years this became Yahtzee with family, especially with sisters Janet and Rose Ann, and Farkle with neighbors. When her sight allowed, mom kept a journal, writing in it every day. She also loved crocheting, jigsaw puzzles and crosswords. Those who knew her best knew there was no idle time, she remained active socially and mentally, stayed interested in politics, and looked forward to catching up on current events over a cup of coffee. Friendships were an important part of our parents’ lives, cultivating new ones at each stage of life, and treasuring the old ones.
Of course, mom and dad’s favorite pastime was dancing, 1940s style, for as long as they were able. Saturday nights consisted of chiffon and heels, Estee Lauder and a fresh hairdo; dad in his suit and tie and newly shined shoes. Magic happened on the dance floor, and it continued through their life-long love story.
Mom was curious, interesting, strong willed, frugal and a force of nature. We’ll remember her always for the love she gave her family– so proud of her sons’ accomplishments, the encourager in all my own endeavors. She was a loving grandmother, still delighting and marveling at the nearly 100 year age difference between her and the great grands.
She loved Silver Streaks Girls Basketball, music, books, dancing, and Dean Martin. And most of all she loved our father.
She will be missed, her memory cherished, her life celebrated. Cheers, mom, to a life well lived. It was time to rest and to journey home.
The family wishes to thank OSF Hospice and the staff at Seminary Manor for their care in her final days. A special thanks too, to Larry Lucas, for the immeasurable care you gave her, and most importantly, for being her friend.
Peg is survived by her children, Bill (Evon), St George, Utah, Robert (John Flather), Oakland, California, and Jeanne Clark (Larry Lucas), Henderson, Illinois; grandchildren Jeff Henderson, Brandon Coe, Clayton (Marisa) Coe, Eric Henderson, and Ann (Andrew) Boyden. And the Great Grands who delighted and lifted her up, Dawson, Cameron, Gavin, Madelyn, and Raegan Coe. Peggy is also survived by her sister, Janet Anderson, brother-in-law Howard Newton, beloved nieces and nephews and dear cousins.
She was preceded in death by husband Bill, brother Mike Pugh, sister Rose Ann Newton, brother-in-law Andy Anderson and beloved nieces, Julie (Jeff) Bell and Jacqy Williams, sisters in law, Nola (Bill) Baker and June (Paul) McCormack.
Family and friends are invited to attend an open house Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Smokin’ Willies BBQ, 161 N. Cherry St., Galesburg. A buffet style luncheon will be served during that time.
A private family interment will be held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, with Rev. Vince Marolla officiating.
Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
