Submit a PhotoPeggy Armina Lewis Kennedy was a bright light to all who knew her and was always gracious, kind, and courageous. She bravely endured the difficulties of the chronic degenerative type of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for nearly 40 years, and it finally claimed her life on April 20, 2020 at the age of 67. It slowly but surely robbed her of her mobility and her ability to communicate, but through it all she stood tall and kept her wonderful smile. She taught us by example what it means to “endure it well” (Doctrine and Covenants 121:8)
Peggy was born August 5, 1952 in Holbrook, Arizona, the third child of Farrell Walter Lewis and Irene Whiting. There would be six Lewis children, five girls and a boy. Peggy grew up in Holbrook through about 6th grade, when the family moved to Provo, Utah.
By all accounts Peggy was as sweet as they come as a child. Her Grandpa Whiting called her “Pugar,” a playful combination of Peggy and sugar. She was a natural athlete, and her sister reminisced that “Peggy could run really fast and do cartwheels better than anyone in the family.” How wonderful to think of her now released from her mortal body, running really fast and doing cartwheels again!
Peggy married John Aden Kennedy in the Provo Utah temple on November 15, 1973. John was a handsome ranch-hand turned business major from Randolph, Utah, and they decided to build a life together. Upon graduation from BYU they did stints in Texas and Illinois as John began his career in sales. Longer stops included Mesa, Arizona, South Jordan, Utah, San Diego, California, and Kaysville, Utah, before landing in Gilbert, Arizona, where they’ve spent the last 23 years.
John and Peggy raised two boys and two girls. Peggy’s love and patience towards her young children was clear to others who marveled at how with gentle tones she was able to get her kids’ attention even in chaotic situations. When the family was out and about, it was not unusual for people to compliment their children’s excellent behavior. Of course Peggy’s sweet influence was behind it…coupled with the occasional threat of a wooden spoon.
As her health slowly deteriorated, Peggy fought back, exploring numerous treatments, both conventional and unconventional. In the midst of all that, she also went back to BYU to try to finish her degree, adding to the complexity and stress in her life. Her children remember the faith she showed during those years, trusting in the Lord and gathering her children around her in prayer and scripture study. Her symptoms continued to intensify, leaving her in need of help for most everything. By the refiner’s fire, Peggy gained an extraordinary measure of grace and dignity that she now carries into the eternities.
John and Peggy’s long devotion to each other has uplifted all who know them. John has served as Peggy’s faithful caregiver over the many years of her steadily declining health, enduring to the very end. Their love story does not end here, thanks to their love for each other and their faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel. By their quiet examples, they have taught powerful lessons about what really matters in this life.
Peggy was preceded in death by her mother, Irene Lewis. She is survived by her father, Farrell Lewis, her husband, John Aden Kennedy, and her children and grandchildren, as follows:
- Corey and Merilana Kennedy
- Grant, Tristan Peggy, Caden, Riley, Mara, Trevin
- Tim and Amber Peterson
- Allie, Jenna, Reid
- Chris and Heather Banbury
- Morgan, Logan, Reagan, Megan
- Kevin and Angie Kennedy
- Reese, Max, Crew, Gage
Peggy is also survived by siblings Lynette Peterson, Karen Priest, Kristine (Hal) Holladay, DeeAnn (Steve) Abaroa, and Steve Lewis.
In this coronavirus period, the family will hold a private service with immediate family members only. The service will be available to watch live on Saturday, April 25, 2020 at 10:30 am (Arizona time) through YouTube Live at this web address: https://youtu.be/itOA_jxJSMo. The recorded video of the service will be available afterwards through the same web address.
Since we can’t see you, we would welcome condolences, which can be posted below. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to the Multiple Sclerosis Society or to the charity of your choice in Peggy’s honor.
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Oh, my lovely and dear sister! How blessed I have been to be your “little” sister. You are my example in everything good! You will be missed, but your bright light shines on through your children & grandchildren! I love for forever & always! Forever grateful… Kris
Corey and Merilana,
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Richard and Patrina Yang
Corey,
I am so sorry for your loss. Sounds like Peggy was a wonderful woman and exceptional mother. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Brian,
Chelsea, & Jaelyn
I didn’t know Peggy, but I know and have tremendous respect for her son, Corey. Peggy was (and still is) an amazing mother.
Corey and Merilana, you and your family are in our prayers.
Brandon & Wendy
Peggy was, and is, absolutely one of my favorite life heroes. I can’t begin to express the admiration I have for the way she valiantly clung to our Savior’s grace which enabled her to become one of his very own. If I can only acquire and emulate a fraction of the courage and love that she possessed and faithfully demonstrated, surely I will have the brightest of all eternities to look forward to. I love you, Peggy, and I love all your family. You will be sorely missed.
So sorry for your lost. Prayers are with you and your family. What a beautiful family.
My dear cousin Peggy, you were always one of the sweetest, kindest people I have ever known! Because you, Ronnie, my twin brother Danny and I were all the same age, we played so much together at Grandma Lewis’. My memories of our young lives playing together are just wonderful! I thank God you were a valuable part of my life!
My sweet sister, “PeggySue” I miss you desperately and long for the time we can giggle again, we can sing again, we can dance again. You are my Angel Sister and am forever grateful for your unconditional love and example of Christ-like attributes. Until we meet again, I will look upwards knowing you’ll be cheering us all onward. Loves4ever!
John & family,
Sending you my heartfelt condolences on Peggy’s passing. Your devotion & gentle hand was admired by all. May Peggy enjoy her eternal reward.
I will always remember dear Peggy as such a beauty, our love goes to to you all at this time.
We echo every sentiment! Peggy truly carried an extraordinary measure of grace and dignity. Sending our love to your very special family!
John and family: We pray that you find peace at this time as Peggy’ s pain and suffering is over here on earth. May she now be at peace and comfort in the afterlife. I feel privileged to have met her several times. I know she was a great woman because of how your children turned out. John, you and Peggy left a great legacy through your children. Again, may God bless your family with peace at this time of loss.
John, Chris, Heather and family,
Our thoughts are with you during this time of sorrow.
Sending our love,
Tim and Joni Walker
John Kennedy & Family,
Sorry for your loss . Peggy was a wonderful women who was loved and cared for by her wonderful family. She will be missed by all.
Rest In Peace Peggy.
Ozzie Huff
My sincere condolences to Peggy’s big, beautiful family, a direct testament to her bright and infinite legacy on our universe. We should all be so blessed as Peggy to create from love such an bountiful abundance of love. To John, thank you for showing us how to be a strong husband and man; my respect for you is higher than any mountain peak!
Corey and Merilana,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family!!!!
John, although I never met Peggy, I certainly have heard so much about her over our many years of friendship. My deepest condolences to you and all family. Be well.
I have always loved and admired Peggy and John!!! They have shown what true love and devotion can get you through!! I can’t wait to see her run and do cartwheels some day!! Love to all the family!
To all the family of sweet Peggy. John, your life together was commendable. Your family has always exhumed grace, love, and lasting gratitude for your sweet wife/Mom. Your ole neighbors on Page Ave. send our love and hugs. Go now Angel, your Heaven awaits you!🙏🏻💕 Blessing to all of you!
What a beautiful tribute for a most deserving lady. We’re grateful to know your family and have your sweet influence in our lives. ‘By their fruits ye shall know them’ indeed.
We are so very sorry for your loss and broken hearts. It was a blessing and an honor to know Peggy. Dad and I will always remember her bright light and smile. You could always see the love and joy in her face. We will remember Peggy always and keep her spirit in our hearts. May you find peace and love in remembering your precious mom. Peggy will be greatly missed but never forgotten. We love you all, Pete and Char
Beautiful Peggy—in both looks and spirit. What a lovely inspiration you have been during your earthly life! Thank you for teaching us all how to live with our trials and endure to the end. You are dearly loved by so many. Enjoy your reunion with your Mom, niece Kari and all who have been waiting for you .
Our heartfelt condolences are with you and your family as you cope with the loss of your wonderful wife Peggy who you loved so dearly.
John, the way you took care of your wife for all those years taught us all what true love looks like. And your beautiful family is a testament to your faith in Heavenly Father and the blessings he has bestowed on your family.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Corey and family,
My sincerest condolences on your loss. May you be blessed with peace during this difficult time.
I’m so sorry John for your loss. I never had the pleasure of meeting Peggy, but I know she must have been a very special woman. I’ll always remember how you were a such a faithful and caring husband to her. Will be praying for you and your family in this time.
John, Kevin and Kennedy’s,
Your family has been a huge blessing to our family over the decades. Your family will be in our prayers this weekend as we mourn the loss of and celebrate Peggy’s life. Thank you for the invitation to Celebrate with you tomorrow.
Much love and support,
The Swenson Family
John, I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences for you and your family during this time. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Dear Amber,
Words can’t express the loss of your mother.. Know that we are here for you in these difficult times. Please pass our condolences on to your family members.
Sending love 💕
Although I never met Peggy, I have always been moved by her resilience in dealing with her illness. And John’s dedication to her was so wonderful. God bless you all.
The Beck Family
John and Family,
Condolences for the loss, praying for you and yours.
Trevor Slade
Oh gosh, my feelings are so mixed at learning of Peggy’s graduation to Heaven. I worked for and with John for two years and met Peggy twice. What awesome witnesses of love, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control I saw in John and Peggy when they were together. The world is enriched by such fine people, and a little poorer for her departure. But it wonderful to think how she is restored now! I pray the Lord’s peace and uplift for John and the other family at this time.
What a special family! Will miss Peggy and her contagious smile! She was a joy to be with and taught us how to endure! Love to the Kennedy family! ❤️
Kennedy Family,
We are so sad to hear of Sister Kennedy’s passing. She was such a light, and wonderful example of kindness, faith, and unconditional love. You couldn’t spend a minute in her presence without feeling completely uplifted and inspired. I used to love calling the landline at the Kennedy home looking for Kevin, because I knew I would probably get to talk to Sister Kennedy. She was always so warm and excited to talk, and just hearing her cheerful voice made the day better. She was so amazing, and her legacy of goodness continues to grow exponentially through Brother Kennedy, her wonderful kids, and grand-kids. We love you all and will miss her dearly.
Sincerely,
The Barney’s
John and Family,
It was with much sorrow and joy when we learned of cousin Peggy’s passing. It is a joy to know she is whole again and in heaven with family that loves her as much as you do. Peggy is one of the sweetest people I have ever known. And her courage and strength was beyond words. You are a very special man, that I will always respect and admire for your strength and support you gave to dear Peggy. I will always remember our really good times at the Hatch Reunions and at grandma Lewis’s house in Taylor. As kids we would climb the apple trees and go to the “creek”, while our mothers and grandma made taffy, bread and rolls and all kinds of good things to eat. My brother Ron, who also passed a few years ago and Peggy were the same age and I know Ron loved her very much. I can still see them running thru grandma’s back yard in the apple orchard. She is home and free to run. John, thank you again for being the great Man you are. Peggy was lucky to have you as you were lucky to have her. Our love and condolences to you and your family.
John and your family, all the Lewis family,
Our hearts are broken for your loss. Peggy was always such a beautiful and gentle soul; there will never be another one quite like her. She will now grace heaven with her presence. We love the Kennedy and Lewis families and trust the Lord to provide you with an abundance of comfort and joy for sweet and wonderful memories.
Peggy Kennedy… an angel in Heaven… but no more so than she was an angel on earth… only now she has “wings”. We fell in love with her 23 years ago when our daughter, Merilana, married her son, Corey. She was in a wheelchair by then, and speaking was difficult… very difficult… but beneath all the physical trauma there lived a spirit as strong, vibrant and holy as any spirit to ever tabernacle in the flesh here on this earth. She ALWAYS had a smile… no matter what, no matter when. She always make Carolei and I feel as though we were here best friends. We already knew her sisters, Lynette and Karen, and through our association with Peggy we came to know her other sisters, Chris and Dee Dee. Those “crazy Lewis sisters” as the five of them were known (and rightly so:) became such good friends. How we will miss Peggy! And John… well, John is my hero, and when I grow up I want to be just like him! Through John’s exemplary life, his consecrated life, caring for dear Peggy, I have come to gain new insight into the meaning of such words as “love” and “devotion”. John, Peggy and all of your children, grandchildren and Ferrell and all of your extended family, we love you dearly. May the Lord’s choicest blessings rest with you now and always. — Stephen and Carolei
We weren’t fortunate enough to know Peggy, but we do know and love her Son, Kevin, who is one of the kindest, caring men we know. Great job Peggy! We wish We could have met you. We send our sympathy, love and prayers to the entire Kennedy family!❤️
How we love her. Such a beautiful, sweet & caring Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother & friend. She will be missed but so grateful for the time she had here to bless our lives. John we love you & your family & you all are in our hearts, thoughts & prayers. 💕🍃💕
John and family. All our love to your family. Thank you for your example of Christlike love and devotion. Scott and Elizabeth Adams
Uncle John and all my wonderful cousins,
I want you to know how much of an inspiration all of you have been to me and my family. Aunt Peggy was and is so loving and kind. She will be dearly missed. Over the many years, I had the pleasure of silently observing the amazing love, consideration, and care that all of you showed to your dear mother. Despite the challenges, your family was always at family gatherings and events. Simply to be with you and having the privilege to watch how you treated and cared for one another touches my heart and continues to shape and influence how I want my own family to care and attend to one another. Thank you for giving us a personal example of what Christ’s pure love looks like. I am so blessed to be an extended part of you family. Your family and sweet Aunt Peggy will be in our hearts and prayers as we offer our deepest condolences.
With love,
Bryce and Tiffany Holladay
The memories we have Peggy are filled light and happiness, faith and brightness of hope.
I have many memories that crackle with the laughter and vigor of childhood, shared cookies and tart green apples at Grandma and Grandpa Lewis’s home in Taylor, tables laden with delicious food, green yards to run through and trees to climb. I envied the cartwheels you performed, and even now, your infectious giggle brings a smile. You were blessed with a radiant gorgeous smile that could light up the room.
Then you and the family moved to Utah and we didn’t get to see as much of you, until I chased Ellen to BYU, and became a regular for Sunday dinners. I’ve admired John from our first meeting.
Together you raised a beautiful family, what a blessing! Yes, there were challenges and afflictions. Some burdens became heavier with time, but you, John and your precious family bore them with grace and uncommon dignity, perseverance and optimism. In so doing, your light has kindled a brightness of hope in our hearts and the lives of many… even strangers have been blessed by your courage and faith.
We send our love and heartfelt regards and an invocation of peace to be with you all, now and always.
Kerry & Ellen
This will be my third try to express how we felt about our dear Peggy. A true demonstration of my computer skills. It was with much sorrow and joy learning about cousin Peggy’s passing. Sorrow that she is gone from us and for John and family for there loss. And joy knowing that Peggy is no longer confined in her earthly body. Joy in knowing that she now home with her heavenly family and with family that also loved her so much. She is now free to run and enjoy a perfect celestial body. My brother Ron and Peggy were the same age and close, Ron also passed a few years ago and I know they are enjoying each other company once again. There only wonderful thoughts and memories of our younger years playing in Grandma Lewis’s backyard. Running thru her apple orchard and Uncle Jess’s orchard. Even though Uncle Jess would chase us off if he caught us. Swinging on the big swing on the apple tree with her sister Karen and going to the “creek” to play in the water, while our mothers and Grandmother Lewis were cooking taffy, rolls and all kinds of wonderful things to eat (and all from scratch) and our dads and grandpa Lewis watching the ball games in the living room (on black and white TVs), which seems like yesterday. We would also like to extend our condolences to John and Family and to tell John how much respect and gratitude we have for him, for the many, many years you took care of Peggy and stayed by her side. A sign of enteral love and what a real man and husband does for the woman he loves. Thank you so much for being there for her. Bless you.
John and Family,
I never met Peggy, but working with John, and hearing his stories of his amazing wife, you could always see the great love he had for her in his eyes. My condolences are with you and your family during this time. May Peggy Rest In Peace.
Dear Lewis and Kennedy families, your mother/grandmother was an unbelievable person.She will not be forgotten by your wonderful families. My heartfelt condolences to you all.
Peggy was such a beautiful and extraordinary cousin. Her example of kindness, humility and love will forever live on in our memories of her. We want to extend our deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to you John and all your family. It was only a few months ago that we were at our Sons side as he passed from this life. We know how the sting of loss will always be felt, but with the great love and strength the Lord gives it has helped us to bear it. We know he is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. As the days continue to go by we hope you find comfort and support in the people that surround you. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.
Dear John, Corey, Amber, Heather, Kevin, and your sweet families,
Our family was deeply touched watching the beautiful services for Peggy today. There couldn’t have been a more heart-felt and fitting tribute for such an incredible woman. While we ache for you to know how much you will miss her, we are so grateful for the legacy that she left in each one of you. Her meekness, love, gentleness, and kindness will always be remembered because of the way you live your lives. We love you! Matt, Melody, and Family
What a beautiful service and tribute to Peggy by her children. We wish we could have been there with you. It must be comforting to know that Peggy has gained celestial acceptance of our dear Lord. Love to you all.
John and Family,
🌸🌺🌼May your hearts be filled with the wonderful memories of joyful times, learning times, loving times, and always “lving Christlike” times with your “Sweet Peggy” . How blessed we are that Families continue to “be families” through out Eternity. We cherish our memories with Peggy especially at family get togethers, and reunions. Our 🙏 ‘s go out for you…especially at this time. Love and Blessings!🌼🌺🌸
Condolences John..to you and your family.
Hi John. I was just informed about Peggy’s passing. I had the pleasure of meeting her twice when you brought her with you to a couple of Time Warner Telecom functions. I do not believe the smile ever left her face. And you still remained the proud and attentive husband. John, you were the best manager and boss I ever had, and I had many. And being in the competitive field of IT and coaching us through all of the challenges of the burgeoning Internet, what an interesting time and field of work.. How lucky we were to have you. God bless Peggy and there is no doubt she is in a wonderful place. And God bless you as well for being such a wonderful human being. It would be great to visit with you some time.
Corey, your Mother sounded like such an amazing woman. What a lovey story and life she had lived. Even though she is gone her heart and character live within you and your children.
May God hold you and your family tight through this tough time. Love, Marvella
I met Peggy in the early 1990’s when she accompanied John on a business-related trip to the Bahamas. Peggy was such a kind, lovely person. We had a full agenda planned with some challenging logistics, but she was up for anything. Our speed boat got caught in a sudden storm and we had to race back to the pier to board the ship. We ended up having to climb up a sea wall. With everyone’s help, Peggy was lifted out of the boat and somehow up the wall. She was so brave! I’ve never forgotten her and always wondered what happened to her. I’m so glad she lived to raise her family and enjoy many grandchildren. My condolences to John and family on this great loss. I know she must be terribly missed by everyone.