Peggy Dyches McNeely

Peggy Dyches McNeely, 80, a beloved member of her church, community and a cherished family matriarch, peacefully entered into her eternal Heavenly home on February 27, 2025, at Viva Senior Living in Albany. Born on April 12, 1944, in Norway, South Carolina, Peggy's life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, her remarkable contributions to her community, and her profound love for those around her.

After graduating from Norway High School in 1962, Peggy married and began to grow her family. Her life journey took her from Norway to Aiken, before finally settling in Wrens in 1966, where she thrived surrounded by her loved ones, including her sister. As a homemaker, Peggy created a loving and safe haven for her family, ensuring their comfort and happiness. Later, she transitioned into the workforce at various local business before contributing over 30 years of service at First State Bank.

An active and civic-minded individual, Peggy was known for her passion for her community. She was one of the original organizers of Wrens Better Home Town and played an instrumental role in the development of Wrens Veterans Park. Her life was characterized by a busy schedule filled with meaningful engagements, and she made the most of every moment. On many weekends, she could be found helping her friend Wayne in his funnel cake business, showcasing her zest for life.

Peggy's faith was a cornerstone of her existence. She accepted Jesus at a young age, attending Norway Baptist Church and later becoming an active member of Wrens Christian Fellowship Church (formerly Wrens United Methodist Church). Her devotion extended not only to her spiritual life but also to her family, as she was known for her loving, kind, and generous nature. Whenever there was a need, Peggy was there with a helping hand, always accompanied by her warm smile.

Passionate about cooking and sewing, Peggy was also renowned for her immaculate lawn and her love for gardening and flowers. She found great joy in traveling to the beach and going shell hunting. Her love for shopping was reflected in her notable shoe collection, a testament to her vibrant personality.

Peggy is survived by her devoted husband, Alec Stone McNeely; her children, John E. Shepherd Jr. (Vicki) and Michael McNeely (Jennifer); her grandchildren, Jessica Henderson (John), Christopher Shepherd (Bryttany), and Iyanna McNeely; and her great-grandchildren, Charlotte Henderson, Madeline Henderson, Evan Henderson, and Heidy Shepherd. She is also remembered by her siblings, Clarasue Johnson and Wayne Dyches; her "Bestest" friend, Dale Harris; and other extended family, church family, and numerous friends whose lives she touched.

Peggy is preceded in death by her parents, Margaret Stillinger Dyches and Herman Henry Dyches; her brother, Charles Henry Dyches; her brother-in-law, Ted Johnson; and her sister-in-law, Judy Dyches.

A visitation will be held from 10:00AM – 12:00PM Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at James Funeral Home. Graveside services officiated by Rev. Ron Dixon will follow at 1:00PM at the Wrens Memorial Gardens Cemetery. 

The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in her honor to the church she loved—Wrens Christian Fellowship Church, 202 Russell Street, Wrens, GA 30833.

As we celebrate the life and legacy of Peggy Dyches McNeely, we remember her as a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, whose spirit and kindness will forever remain in our hearts.