Peggy Abbs

Peggy Jo Abbs was born on July 10, 1949, at Offutt Air Force Base, Plattsmouth, Nebraska to Joseph and Gladys Waydak. As an Air Force brat, she lived in Nebraska, Puerto Rico, Texas and Michigan.

Peggy graduated from Gwinn High School in the upper peninsula of Michigan. She continued her education at Michigan State University. After earning a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Medical Technology, she interned at Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn, Michigan.

On December 23, 1972, Peggy married Jay L. Abbs. They arrived in Blythe on January 1, 1973. Peggy immediately went to work at Palo Verde Hospital. For 40 years, she was a Clinical Laboratory Scientist and Laboratory Manager. Peggy was recognized multiple times as Employee of the Year. Additionally, she was named by Providence Healthcare as one of their National Employees of the Year.

Peggy was one of the founders of the Community United Methodist Church’s Sunshine Preschool. After serving as a Director and President of the Preschool, she moved on to the Palo Verde Unified School District from 1983 to 1991, eventually serving as its President. Peggy was a member of Blythe Soroptimists, also serving as President.

In 1977, she partnered with Wanda Hadlock and opened the Top Shop. For 29 years, Peggy served as the exhibit’s coordinator for the Colorado River Fair, where she entered and displayed the Home Arts, Fine Arts, and Photograph projects of local community members. She was the recipient of the Blue-Ribbon Award from Western Fairs Association for Outstanding Service to the Fair Industry.

Peggy Jo Abbs passed away March 26, 2022 at Eisenhower Medical Center with her family by her side.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband Jay of 49 years, her children Meghan Crawford (Brian) and Sean Abbs (Amanda), granddaughter Tatum Abbs and grandsons Carter Abbs and Ricky Lara. Peggy is also survived by her brother Joe. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be held Monday, April 11th from 6-8 pm at Frye Chapel. Services will be Tuesday, April 12th at Frye Chapel at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Peggy’s name to Friends of the Colorado Fair to recognize Best of Show winners in 4-H and FFA non-livestock projects each year.