Mildred G. Peele

Mildred G. Peele NORFOLK - Mildred Guilds Peele, 95, died Feb. 9, 2009. Millie was born in Bamberg, S.C., Aug. 5, 1913, and was the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. John Caldwell Guilds. She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, E. Vernon Peele in 1990. She was a graduate of Columbia College and received her master's degree in English from Duke University. Millie loved teaching English and taught in Norfolk at the now Williams School, Granby High School, Norfolk Academy and at Old Dominion University where she retired. During the 90s, Millie spent nine summers teaching at the Limerick Youth Center for disadvantaged youth in Limerick, Ireland, living in the school convent. She did volunteer work with Norfolk Juvenile Courts, the Larchmont United Methodist Church and with numerous reading and writing programs offered by Norfolk Public Schools and Old Dominion University. In the late 60s, Millie was a co-founder of the NATO Book Club which still meets regularly. She belonged to a number of educational organizations and was a member of the Kiwanis Club of Norfolk. Suggest traveling, and Millie was ready to go. Her travels included much of Europe, Alaska, several visits to Churchill, Canada to view the polar bears, and to Akulivik, Canada near the Arctic Circle, to observe the Inuit Indians and their way of life. She loved animals and spending time observing nature. She was a lifelong member and supporter of the Audubon Society and enjoyed taking trips with Elderhostel tours. Millie was a member of the Larchmont United Church for 60 years. She found good in all people and in almost any situation. Millie was never one to complain. She is survived by her brother, Dr. John Caldwell Guilds Jr. of Fayetteville, Ark.; her daughter, Ruth E. Peele; her son, Edward V. Peele Jr. and partner, Crystal Wass, all of Norfolk; and extended family members, Marge Reed and Gilda Chavis. Gilda, Millie's devoted and faithful friend, became her personal caregiver for her last seven years and is truly one of God's special people. The family wishes to thank Millie's friends at Harbour Pointe for their care and support over the last five years. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. in Larchmont United Methodist Church Thursday by the Rev. Scott Rimer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Larchmont United Methodist Church Education Fund, 1101 Jamestown Crescent, Norfolk, VA 23508 or to the ODU College Writing Center, c/o ODU Office of Development, 4417 Monarch Way, 4th Floor, Norfolk, VA 23529. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Norfolk Chapel, is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be made through www.hdoliver.com.