Mrs. Peggy Jo Kennett, 78, of Knoxville, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 2:40 a.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Knox County Nursing Home in Knoxville, surrounded by the love of her family.
Peggy was born on October 18, 1947, in Galesburg, Illinois, the daughter of J. Lavern and Viola “Billie” (Ross) Lindsey. She first married Jimmy DeJaynes, and together they welcomed their two children, Jamie and James. She later married Carl D. Kennett III in November of 1981 in Las Vegas, Nevada, in a ceremony officiated by none other than Elvis Presley.
Peggy is survived by her husband, Carl, of Knoxville; her two children, Jamie (Marvin Kaywood) Ray of Oquawka, Illinois, and James (Marcia) DeJaynes of Albuquerque, New Mexico; her four bonus children, Carl “Dewey” Kennett IV (Bobbie Jo) of Texas, Stacey (Vincente) Villarreal of Texas, Danuel (Rhonda) Kennett of Indiana, and Shawn Kennett of East Galesburg; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Patty Alwaldt; her daughter-in-law, Dana Kennett; and her grandson, Cody L. Ray.
Peggy attended Abingdon-area schools. She later lived in Camp Verde, Arizona, before returning to Knoxville as her health began to decline. She was a member of First Assembly of God Church in Abingdon.
Peggy was a homemaker for the majority of her life. She also worked as a waitress at Abbey Lanes. She was a true caregiver who welcomed everyone with open arms into her home and heart. Family was incredibly important to Peggy, and she especially cherished time spent with her children and grandchildren.
Peggy had a love for shopping, clothes, and jewelry. She was very fashionable, always taking pride in putting together well-coordinated and matching outfits. She was sassy, quick-witted, and never one to hold back her thoughts. Peggy also loved cooking delicious meals for those she loved and enjoyed thrifting with her sister.
Peggy had a creative side that shone through her love of sewing. She often made handmade gifts for her grandchildren, including homemade pillowcases, blankets, Christmas dresses, and purses. Her thoughtful creations were made with love and sometimes shipped all the way to Illinois for her grandchildren to enjoy. These handmade treasures are a special reflection of the love and care Peggy gave so freely to her family.
In accordance with Peggy’s wishes, cremation will be accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Abingdon American Legion, in Abingdon, Illinois. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The Seeing Eye, a foundation providing guide dogs for people who are blind, or the Wounded Warrior Project. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services of Abingdon is honored to serve the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
