Margaret “Peggy” Vivian High Steele (McElheny) passed away on October 10, 2024 in Waynesboro, VA. She was the daughter of the late Maude Vivian High.

Peggy is survived by her son, Josh McElheny (Brittany) of Charlottesville, and her daughter Hannah Ledger (Jeff) of Farmville; stepson Randy Steele of Raleigh, NC; grandchildren Carter, Camden, and Cooper McElheny, and Kaylie, Reese, Ramsey and Hope Ledger. She is also survived by two loving brothers, Donnie and Doug, as well as a number of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Peggy was preceded in death by her mother, Vivian; husband Patrick; and brothers Dickie, David, and Harry, as well as “Mom and Dad” from her first marriage, Helen and William “Billy” McElheny.

Peggy was born June 27, 1951 on a military base in Yokohama, Japan. A military brat, she and her family lived many places before settling in Tampa, Florida where she attended Plant High School and the University of South Florida. At USF she was a proud member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She continued her education at the University of Virginia where she earned a Master’s Degree.

Peggy had a passion for teaching and did so in multiple school systems, but spent the majority of her career in Charlottesville, VA and Waynesboro, VA. Though she retired years ago, Peggy could not stay away, and had taken on responsibilities as a long-term substitute. She had most recently been working with students in a special education setting, and had returned to school at the age of 73 to learn more about how to work with these amazing students.

She loved her grandchildren more than anything in this world. She enjoyed attending all of their many sporting events and spoiling them rotten. Lovingly referred to as “Memaw”, she was always there with a big hug and a beautiful smile. She also had to be reminded that she did not have to buy them everything they asked for!

As her children, we would like everyone to know that Peggy was an incredible mother. There was a never a moment when her love was in doubt. She never missed a sporting event, helped coach when she could, and was a favorite of all our friends. Her door was always open to everyone for a meal or just a visit, and that is a legacy that we will continue

Peggy did not wish to have a funeral service. Her church, Waynesboro Mennonite Church, will host a small ceremony in her honor. The family will host a celebration of life in the spring when everyone can enjoy fellowship and warm weather. Information for this will be communicated at a later date.

Those who knew her know that she loved the beach. She and Patrick were married at the beach and it was always her favorite place to be. Her ashes will be spread at sea where we know she will be happy. 

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