It is with heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of Peggy Matheson (nee Wright), age 85, on October 11th, 2026 at Extendicare Countryside, Sudbury.
Peggy is the daughter of the late Dougal and Olive Wright and daughter-in-law of the late Joe and Edna Matheson. Dear sister of Tom Wright (Yvette) and sister-in-law to Sylvia Beange, Joanne Gunter, Rose Jackson (Bill), and Mike Matheson (Anne).
Peggy leaves behind the love of her life, beloved husband of 65 years, Murray Matheson. Their bond was defined by an unbreakable devotion characterized by a partnership where they never left each other’s side. This deep commitment was evident by Murray’s extraordinary dedication during her final years as he showed up every day to be by her side at the nursing home, a testament to the love and devotion that remained steadfast until the very end.
Peggy is also survived by her sons Tom (Paola), Rob (Emily), Dave (Kim), and her daughter Patty Smith (Dan), as well as her cherished grandchildren, Ryan (Jacob), Zach (Coral), Andrew (Zena), Quin (Mackenzie), Alex (Colleen), Avery (Keiran), Matthew (Jessica), Abby (Alex), Amy (Greyson), and special gramma Matheson to Jessica (Joe), Lindsey, Corey (Taeko), and great gramma to Quinn and Willow. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Peggy was raised in Levack and began her teaching career there in 1959. She took a short hiatus to raise her children then returned to her calling, ultimately retiring from her esteemed teaching career in 1996. Peggy was a truly remarkable educator and soul. A teacher whose influence transcended the classroom. She remained a cherished mentor to generations of students long after her retirement. Her brilliance was matched only by her warmth.
One of her greatest joys was spending time at the camp that Murray built in Kagawong on Manitoulin Island. She loved watching birds and all the other wildlife. She also loved baseball and hockey being an avid Jays and Maple Leafs fan.
Peggy was a master of crossword puzzles, word searches and Sudokus. She also loved to read and possessed the unique ability to navigate 3 books at once with perfect clarity. Beyond her intellect, she was the embodiment of kindness and grace, leaving an indelible mark of love on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was a constant nurturing presence, best remembered for her legendary hugs and unwavering devotion to her family. She also had the most contagious laugh and was well known for her signature sign-off, a heartfelt “love you” as a sincere and warm expression of affection for her loved ones.
Whether cheering passionately from the sidelines at a hockey rink or supporting her grandchildren in their various pursuits, she was their greatest fan and most dedicated champion. Her love and dedication to her children and grandchildren were second to none.
Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched and the enduring lessons of love she imparted. While we mourn the loss of such a compassionate spirit, we celebrate a life lived with profound purpose, deep intelligence and an endless capacity to love and care for her family. She will be missed beyond measure, but her memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed by her presence.
Her genuine love, thoughtfulness, concern, empathy, and warm personality, along with her relentless strength, perseverance, and resilience, will live on forever in every one of us.
Mom/Nan, we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for everything you have done and continue to do to enrich our lives. You have set a remarkable standard and example for us to emulate. We are eternally grateful to you. You are so deeply loved and missed. Your beautiful light will continue to shine brightly in all of us.
The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the special staff at Extendicare Countryside; you know who you are. We were so fortunate to have the very best staff caring for Peggy during her time there. If so desired, in memory of Peggy, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society by clicking here.
