Peggy L (Johnson) Billingsley

On September 24, 2023, Peggy Louise Billingsley has departed from her physical presence that, for 92 years, was a pillar of strength, a fountain of laughter, and the embodiment of grace and sacrifice to her family, friends, and community.

Peg, as her friends referred to her, was born in Muskegon, MI on August 18. 1931 to Elna and August Johnson. As a young woman, she enjoyed her summers on the Lake Michigan beaches and taking the ferry to Chicago for weekend escapades with her girlfriends. In high school, she declared her plans to marry and, years later on September 22, 1955, was for-better or for-worse betrothed to Bruce Billingsley. It was a grand beginning as they were wed in Basel, Switzerland and honeymooned on the French Riviera.  They initially lived in Germany, while Bruce finished his service in the Army. Afterwards, they built a little life and a large family moving to Muskegon, then Chelsea, and, finally, Kalamazoo, MI.

Peg often recounted that her wish was to have a big family and her six children fulfilled this. As a mother, she had a remarkable talent for turning ordinary moments into lasting memories. Some of her most memorable Peggy-isms were the wry blink and smile conveying a job well done or a delicious treat being shared. Her whispers of support and “Bless your heart” acknowledging a kind gesture, to her impromptu dance moves, and her manic, off-key happy birthday serenades. Throughout all the ups and downs, she provided tireless warmth, unbridled energy, and boundless generosity. In her embrace, the world was made right and in her laughter, problems faded away.

After the struggle of losing Bruce, Peg blossomed into a life of lunches with friends, active membership at Sunnyside United Methodist Church, and being Grandma B to her 11 grandchildren. As her health declined, her lust for life made her one of the favorite residents of Bickford Assisted Living staff in Battle Creek, MI. Thank you for your care!

It is with hearts full of sorrow but also, with fond memories, that we celebrate the fortune and blessings of having Peg, Mom, Grandma, in our lives. Her life was a testament to the idea that the richest treasures aren’t material possessions but the memories we create, the lives we touch, and the love we share. As we bid her physical presence goodbye, we find solace in the indelible mark she has left on all our hearts.

Peg is survived by her six children and 11 grandchildren: Steve and Patty Billingsley with Matt, Janice, and Zach; Michael and Sarah Billingsley; Karen Lassen with Stanley and Olivia; Kai Free with Shelby and Sydney; Todd and MIchelle Billinglsey with Haylie and Hayden; and Jay Billingsley and Rose Murrin with Laughlin and Oona.

If you would like to honor her memory, please consider a donation in her name to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan or the Alzheimer’s Association. To view Peggy’s personalized webpage please visit https://www.langelands.com