Peggy Murphy Dhonau

Peggy Murphy Dhonau was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She left this world peacefully with hymns and prayers on March 10, 2025, at the age of 90 in her daughter’s home.

She is survived by her son Keith, daughter Leah (Bruce), grandchildren David (Elle), Daniel (Melissa), and Joshua (Bam), and her great-grandchildren Tay, Tono, Daniella, Archie, Lalisa, and baby Aubrey. She was preceded in death by her mother Ann Murphy and two sisters Virginia Winkleman and Marge Welage.

Peggy was born on April 2, 1934, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Ann and Stanley Murphy. After a challenging life during the Great Depression being raised by a single mom, Peggy later earned her associate degree in secretarial studies. She met and married Howard C. Dhonau. They moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he attended McCormick Seminary. Howard’s first church was in Racine, Wisconsin, where their children Keith and Leah were born. Several years later, they moved to Lake Forest, Illinois, and then to Columbus, Ohio, where Howard was a pastor at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian church for 23 years.

Later in life, Peggy moved to Austell, Georgia to be closer to her family. She loved playing bridge and dominoes with friends, volunteering at local hospitals and through her church, and hosting international students, friends, and family. A lover of nature and animals, Peggy found joy in bird watching, butterflies, beach trips, and her beloved dogs. She was an avid reader and a devoted sports fan, always keeping up with the stats of her favorite teams - the Cincinnati Reds, Ohio State Buckeyes, and of course the Atlanta Braves. She also had a passion for travel, enjoying many memorable trips, both in the U.S. and abroad. More recently, Peggy enjoyed her drives in the country with Keith, and her weekly trips to Brewster’s with Leah for her favorite chocolate chunk ice cream. She also cherished time with family and friends.

Peggy was well-loved - a kind, generous soul who was also resilient, had a great sense of humor, and was full of life. She will be remembered for her infectious smile, sense of humor, and warm personality. We celebrate Peggy’s life and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind, holding on to the assurance of a joyful reunion with her heaven.

Due to a family illness, Peggy’s Celebration of Life service will be scheduled at a later date.