Peggy Ann (Wade) Cruce

Peggy Wade Cruce passed away peacefully on August 21, 2019 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She was born in1933 in Anniston, Alabama and grew up in the close-knit TVA Village No.1 of Sheffield, Alabama. Peggy was a Howard College Phi Mu (now Samford University) in Birmingham, Alabama. Her commitment to Christ, and the work of the church, included the care and teaching of children's Sunday School, being a “House Mom” for young adults at the First Baptist Church’s Cornerstone class.

Peggy worked while her husband attended the University of Alabama. Afterwards, they enjoyed a lifetime of rooting for the Crimson Tide together. The family resided for a time in North Africa where she effectively, and with much aplomb, bridged the boundaries of race, language, and religion. In the 1960's, the family experienced the sacrifices and joys of NASA’s space race at Cape Canaveral, Florida. Peggy stayed close to her children by volunteering as a "Grey Lady" and homeroom mother at their schools and by teaching Vacation Bible School and Girl's Auxiliary at church. Peggy's life was enhanced by a vast array of friends from church, and the YMCA, who were drawn in by her loving heart, curiosity, big smile, great sense of humor, detailed memory of their lives and preferences, and a reputation in the community as the "hostess with the mostest."

Peggy is preceded in death by her father Oliver Julian Wade, mother Lydia Mae England, sister Betty DeBaryshe and brother Gerald Wade. Peggy is survived by Dean, her beloved husband of 68 years, children Cynthia, Philip (Marion), Donna (David), and Wade (Kimberly), 12 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Peggy also leaves behind Khali, her very, very dear canine companion. Her family wishes to thank Hospice of Chattanooga, and Hospice Care Center, for their kind and professional care.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 25 from 1 to 3p.m. in McEwen Chapel, First Baptist Church, 401 Gateway Ave., Chattanooga. The Rev. Mary Jayne Allen and Dr. Thomas Quisenberry will conduct the funeral at 3p.m. in the church. Interment will be in Florence City Cemetery in Florence, Alabama on Monday, August 26th at 5p.m.

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