Peggy James Jones

Peggy James Jones, 85, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's.

Active throughout her life, she was an avid tennis player, staying fit in the 70's with Richard Simmons videos, in the 80's with Jazzercise and continuing with Pilates, yoga, and even Parkinson's boxing workouts.

Peggy and her late husband Bill met on a blind date. He was the love of her life for 58 years, making life-long friendships and making Memphis a better place together. Peggy especially loved working with her friends and the staff at the Memphis Botanic Garden to help bring the Sensory Garden to life so that people of all abilities could enjoy, interact with and be inspired by nature.

Most of all, Peggy gave her children, Margaret and Mason, encouragement and set the tone for each endeavor with her positive attitude and can-do approach. Years ago, Peggy and Bill took the family canoeing, hiking and adventure traveling, which continues to inspire her children and grandchildren today. She was game to try new things and almost always did it with a smile, except for sleeping in tents. She loved trying new restaurants, new places, new recipes, and especially meeting new people, who soon became her friends. Peggy took classes through Rhodes College and the University of Memphis, studying art and anthropology throughout her life.

Peggy could plan just about anything and did it with seeming ease and always with grace. She was determined, yet flexible in taking on any job large or small. A good listener and wise woman, Peggy was particularly supportive of her grandchildren. She delighted in their adventures and in learning about their interests.

Growing up in Sledge, MS, Peggy moved to Senatobia to attend high school and absolutely loved going to Hollins College. Peggy and Bill loved building community, starting out at the Georgian Woods and then Morningside Park for many years.

Peggy shared her humble yet strong leadership style as president of the Little Garden Club and the chair of the board of the Memphis Botanic Garden. She was a member of the Junior League, Les Passes, Tuesday Study Club, the City Beautiful Commission, and Idlewild Presbyterian Church.

Peggy leaves her children, Margaret Fraser (Hugh), Mason Jones (Sybil) and four grandchildren, Sara Fraser, Will Fraser, Austin Jones and Ivy Jones.

We are thankful for Shamel Marshall, Beatrice Mason, and a dedicated, caring team of amazing women who cared for Mom with their expertise, patience and love. Working with the thoughtful, flexible, helpful team at Trezevant was truly a gift to mom and our family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be sent to the Memphis Botanic Garden or The Parkinson's Foundation.

There will be a celebration of Peggy's life at Idlewild Presbyterian Church on Thursday, January 9 at 2:00, with a visitation before at 12:45 in the T.K. Young Room.