Margaret J. Whitley

WESLACO Margaret J. Whitley, fondly known as Peggy, entered her eternal rest on July 5, 2022, just a month short of her 95th birthday, at John Knox Village in Weslaco, Texas. Peggy was born in Mercedes, Texas to Ellery E. “Jack” and Grace B. Johnson on August 4, 1927.

While attending college at Texas A & I in Kingsville, she met her loving husband of 65 years, Homer L. Whitley.

Peggy taught English and Language Arts in Mercedes and Weslaco schools. Still today, past students ask about “Mrs. Whitley” and share their fond stories of being in her class. Peggy enjoyed traveling with Homer in their RV to favorite spots in Colorado, fishing in the Laguna Madre, dabbling in watercolor, bird watching, and playing the piano. Peggy was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Weslaco where for many years she was active in the Women’s Circle, teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir.

Peggy considered her husband and children (and their families) as life’s biggest blessings. She was a wonderful and supportive wife, mother and grandmother with a strong, unwavering Christian Faith. Her friendly smile, kindness and compassion for others touched many and she was admired for her care and devotion to taking care of family members over the years. The family would like to thank her John Knox Village family for their wonderful care, especially Andrea Trevino and the Personal Care team along with Hortencia Reyes and Cristina Sanchez. Her family is extremely blessed and grateful as they celebrate such a beautiful life - well lived.

Homer preceded her in death in 2013. Peggy was also preceded in death by her beloved granddaughter Casey Whitley Damen in 2013 and sister Jacqueline J. Morava in 2004. She is survived by her three children, David (Bonnie) Whitley of Laguna Vista, Texas, Marlee (Gary) Schwarz of McAllen, Texas and Beth (Martin) Masso of Weslaco, Texas. Also surviving are grandchildren Courtney Mitchell (fiancé Ian Christman), Blair (Tiffany) Schwarz, Rebecca (Wes) Hickey, Jake (Karey) Masso, Chad (Paola) Masso, Caroline (Luke) Taylor, and 10 wonderful great-grandchildren with one on the way.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 12, 2022 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm at McCaleb Funeral Home
Graveside Service will be held on Wednesday, July 13, 2022, 9:00am, at Highland Memorial Park. Officiating the service is Pastor David McCann with First Presbyterian Church in Weslaco.

Pallbearers are Blair Schwarz, Jake Masso, Chad Masso, Wes Hickey, Luke Taylor, and Jason Damen.
Memorial contributions can be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Weslaco or to the Alzheimer’s Association.