Peggy I (Gibson) Longenbaugh

Peggy I Longenbaugh, 79, of North Ft. Myers, FL, formerly of Evansville, IN, passed away at 6:55 pm, Wednesday, October 11, 2017, at Page Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.  

Peggy was born June 10, 1938, daughter of Herbert L & Thelma (Matthews) Gibson, in Evansville, IN.  She graduated from Evansville Bosse High School in 1956 and then attended the University of Indianapolis formerly Indiana Central College obtaining her bachelors degree in elementary education.  

Peggy was an elementary school teacher in the Downers Grove, Cedarville and Forreston school districts in Illinois.  She also taught in the Whiteside County jail system educating juveniles and adult inmates to continue their educations, helping over 100 individuals obtain GED certifications.  She also served as the victims advocate in the Whiteside County State’s Attorney office for 5 years supporting victims of crime and their families.  

One of Peggy’s most rewarding roles was as a pastor’s wife.  Her husband served as a senior pastor in the United Methodist Church, Northern Illinois Conference for 44 years. Peggy was a passionate and energetic supporter and very involved in all church activities.  She spearheaded countless committees and social groups including United Methodist Women, young adults, children’s ministry and music and actively participated in several vocal and hand bell choirs. She was the epitome of a pastor’s wife, she never knew a stranger, always offering open arms and a sweet sense to engage with her.

As an only child, Peggy treasured her family and friends. She loved being a daughter, mother and aunt.  Distance never prevented her from attending special functions for family and friends. She was always there for them and rarely missed special occasions or events making every effort to let those she loved know how special they were to her.

Peggy had a zest for life that was contagious.  She brought light, laughter and love to all those she encountered.  She was a kind, caring, loyal and compassionate friend to many and all the lives she touched were better for it. One could always count on Peggy to brighten their day. People were her passion and one could feel it.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Rev. Dr. Lynn E. Longenbaugh, of North Ft. Myers, FL, sons, Kevin (Leanne) Longenbaugh, of Evansville, IN and Kurt (Eliza) Longenbaugh, of Hoffman Estates, IL, daughter, Amy Longenbaugh of Chicago, IL, sister-in-law, Elaine K. (David) Catlin, of Martinsville, IN, brother-in-law, Gerald E. (Marie) Longenbaugh, of Pendleton, IN; seven grandchildren, Tennille, Corie, Bailey, Stephanie, Michael, Rachel, and Daniel; nine great-grandchildren.  

Funeral Services will be held at 1 pm, Saturday, October 21, 2017, at Boone Funeral Home East Chapel-A Family Tradition Funeral Home, 5330 Washington Avenue, Evansville with Rev. David Catlin officiating. Burial will be in Park Lawn Cemetery immediately following the services. At the completion of services, friends and family are invited to gather for food and fellowship.

Friends and Family may call from 11:30 am until 1 pm, Saturday, October 21, 2017, at Boone Funeral Home East Chapel-A Family Tradition Funeral Home.

Memorial Contributions may be made to: University of Indianapolis,1400 E Hanna Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46227 or The United Methodist Church of Morrison, IL, 200 W Lincolnway, Morrison, IL 61270.                              

Condolences may be made to the family online at boonefuneralhome.net             

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