Peggy Persons Fox

Lost but not alone, Peggy Persons Fox died, October 29, 2023, another beautiful soul taken by the ravages of Alzheimer's Disease. She was surrounded by those who loved her most, by those who she had dedicated her entire life.
Born in Macon, Georgia on August 7, 1948, Peggy was raised on a wooded homesite located at the crest of a hill overlooking a sprawling farm of woodland acres and open grass fields in Talbotton, GA. She was the last of three children born to A.P. Persons II (1959) and Elizabeth Pharr Persons (2005).
Peggy grew up living a country life. She enjoyed the fields and streams where she explored and played with her dogs and horses. She won several awards during her childhood from the FFA and 4H Club that spoke to her life style interests. But, her favorite sport and pastime was basketball. Even before the 3-point rule was introduced, Peggy averaged 34 points per game throughout her high school career. At 5 feet five inches tall her two handed jump shot was textbook and earned her the coveted title of being All-State. Having been very quick on her feet added to the skill set that carried her toward an intramural career at Wesleyan College. It was there, in addition to basketball, she stood out with soccer as a second sport and was recognized in the 1969 Edition of Outstanding College Athletes of America. Off the courts, Peggy was also elected President of her Wesleyan Senior Class in 1970.
In September of 1967, Peggy met her only love and one day to be husband, John Fox. She was a sophomore at Wesleyan and he a first day freshman at Mercer University. In 1968 the couple attended the many parties and ceremonies that surrounded Peggy's entry into Columbus Georgia society as the only "out of towner" who was invited to become a Columbus Debutante. The duo were married in 1970 and had two children, Caroline and John III.
Moving to Jacksonville, Florida after college Peggy was the youngest teacher hired at Episcopal High School. She taught English and coached basketball there for 4 years before having her first child. After having her second and raising the children into their early teen years she returned to Episcopal after a 13 year hiatus to entry level positions of teaching, coaching, and admissions. With hard work and perseverance, she went on to become the Director of Admissions in 1992. That was a position she held until her full retirement 25 years later. To say that Peggy truly loved the faculty, staff and students during her 33 year career at Episcopal School of Jacksonville would not begin to convey the deeply emotional connection she had with all who knew and trusted her there. From the custodial staff to the Head of School they all knew and loved 'Miss Peggy' because she took the time to get to know them. For over three decades, being a part of ESJ was very special for her and an honor that she cherished and respected. Sincere thanks to all at Episcopal who shared that magical time with Peggy, but especially, thank you to Dale and to Charley.
Predeceased by her brother A.P. Persons III, aka, Gus (2005), Peggy is survived by her husband of 53 years, John D. Fox, Jr.; daughter, Caroline Fox Penland (Brannon), granddaughters Virginia Elizabeth and Jane Whitaker; son, John D. Fox, III (Katherine), grandchildren John Luke, John Logan, Lennon Kate and Lily Grace Hocker; Elizabeth (Betty) Persons Bracewell who always had a special place in her sister's heart; plus a compliment of nephews and cousins. Of special note, Ruth Norman Solomon who to Peggy, was always more of a second sister than a first cousin.
With grateful yet broken hearts, the Fox Family commends our sweet beautiful Peggy into the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ who she loves and knows well. As a family we call on the Power of the Holy Spirit to give those remaining the strength and courage that will be needed to move forward in life without Peg by our side.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the
Episcopal School of Jacksonville
4455 Atlantic Blvd. Jacksonville FL 32207