(January 18, 1929 – February 18, 2021)
Peggy was the only child of L J and Ila May Lively Rambo whose family roots in Menard, Texas extend into the 1800’s. It was there that Peggy’s love for the land, and all God’s creatures blossomed.
In 1957, she married Gerald Thomas Hooton, a retired Army Officer, and together they raised their two daughters on the family ranch, raising cattle, horses, sheep, goats and other animals.
Peggy and Jerry loved the outdoors and delighted in sharing that love with their two daughters, Jana and Maylyn, and seven grandchildren. There were always animals to feed, strays or wounded to rescue, a garden to attend to, or equipment to be fixed, but in trying to make a living, they never forgot how to truly live.
Peggy and Jerry also loved sports, which is perhaps why piano lessons for the girls never took off, but tennis did, and they played with the girls regularly on the tennis court they built next to the house; it paid off with college scholarships for the girls.
With great age, come many joys and memories, but also great challenges, and Peggy certainly endured hers. She grew to understand Jesus’ words recorded in John 16:33 – “In the world you will have trouble, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” Peggy and Jerry were members of the First Baptist Church in Menard, and shortly before her passing, she stated that attending church with her family was the best and most important thing we ever did, for as it is written: “But in all things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us.” Romans 8:39-39 .
As an amputee due to cancer, Peggy closed her life at Good Tree Retirement Center in Stephenville, Tx. where she enjoyed the company of dear friends, feeding the doves that came to her back door, and taking a little dog named Precious for long rides on her scooter.
Our family is grateful for the loving care our mother received by the wonderful staff at Good Tree and the Solaris Hospice Group. We are also thankful for her sweet friends who cared so much for her, especially Grace who was kind enough to share her adorable little dog, when our Mom was no longer physically able to care for one on her own.
Peggy was preceded in death by her parents and husband, and an infant grandson, Leighton Fleming. She is survived by her two daughters and their families who will cherish shared memories for the rest of their lives.
A memorial service for Peggy will be held at the Stephenville Funeral Home at 120 South Loop, Stephenville, Tx. 76401 on Saturday, February 27th at 10:00. All are welcome to attend.
Donations can be made in her memory to:
The First Baptist Church in Menard, Texas – 301 Tipton St. Menard, Texas 76859
Solaris Hospice – % Brenda Lacour, 2250 S. FM 51, Decatur, Texas 76234
Rogers Wildlife Farm – 1430 E. Cleveland St. Hutchins, Tx. 75141 (972) 225-4000
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