Peg A. Burgett

Margaret A. "Peg" Burgett, 83, of Beardstown, died Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family.

She was born April 8, 1943, in Beardstown, the daughter of Anna Louise Bingham. She married Jerry Burgett on May 10, 1959, and together they shared nearly 67 years of marriage, growing up side by side and building a life centered around love, family, and community.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry Burgett of Beardstown; three daughters, Karen Burgett, Kathy Riley, and Kristy Icenogle, all of Beardstown; her son, Mike Burgett (companion Brenda) of Rushville; six grandchildren, Heather Booth, Brian Riley, Kody Burgett, Lainey Lutkehus, Kaleigh Icenogle and Weslee Icenogle; great-grandchildren, Brayden Booth (fiancé Morgan Kunz), Riley Booth, Clara Riley, Sam Riley, Payton Smith, Mason Burgett, and Noryn Robinson; and many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother and two brothers, Richard and Donald Bingham.

Peg attended Beardstown High School and had a servant's heart, always finding ways to give back to those around her. She was a devoted member of Beardstown First United Methodist Church and the Beardstown Emblem Club #474, where she played an integral role in organizing and preparing countless funeral dinners. Peg had a special gift-she knew exactly how much food was needed for any size gathering and ensured every detail was thoughtfully prepared. Whether at the club or the church, she took great pride in creating meals that brought comfort to families during difficult times. She served as chairwoman of funeral dinners for many years, a role she carried with dedication, compassion, and quiet leadership.

Peg lived life with energy and joy. She enjoyed bus trips and was often the life of the party, bringing laughter wherever she went. As a young woman, she qualified for the Junior Olympics and was proud to have met Jesse Owens. She was an avid bowler and stayed involved in her daughters' lives as a troop leader for Brownies and Girl Scouts. She cherished time spent with her girlfriends and was known for her humor, often saying, "It's not over until the fat lady sings,"-and then laughing as she would begin singing, "la la la," bringing smiles to those around her.

She worked as a student and teacher aide for the Beardstown School District and later with PACT Head Start, where she enjoyed working with children. She also spent time driving for Jennings in Beardstown. In her free time, Peg enjoyed reading, cheering on the Chicago Cubs, and, most of all, following her grandchildren's activities. She could often be found in the bleachers at ballgames, proudly cheering them on at sporting events and school activities, rarely missing a moment to support them.

Above all, Peg's family was her greatest joy. Her husband, Jerry, was not only her partner but her lifelong companion, and together they created a home filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

Per her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service, along with an Emblem Club service, will be held at 11:30 AM Monday at First United Methodist Church in Beardstown. The family will meet with friends from 10:00 AM until the time of services at the church. Burial will be held at a later date. Colwell Memorial Home is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials have been suggested to the donor's choice. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.