Peggy Sue Blackwell, of Shongaloo, Louisiana, peacefully entered the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the age of 88.
Born on February 13, 1938, in Leton, Louisiana, Peggy lived a life defined by unwavering faith, selfless service, and deep devotion to her family. She was a longtime member of Broadmoor Baptist Church in Shreveport before later becoming a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Minden. Her relationship with Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life, and she served Him in countless ways. Whether working mission fundraisers, praying faithfully for others, volunteering with the Evergreen Fire Department, serving her church, or preparing meals for those in need, Peggy found joy in putting others before herself.
She was employed at Colonial Crafters in Shreveport before embracing her cherished roles as a homemaker and caregiver. She enjoyed cross stitching, tending to her beautiful flowers, decorating, collecting antiques, and researching her family’s genealogy, preserving a legacy that will be treasured for generations.
Above all, Peggy loved her family with all her heart. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, soon to be great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose love was steadfast, generous, and selfless. Her remarkable 70-year marriage to her beloved husband, Gayle, was a beautiful testimony of commitment, faithfulness, and enduring love that inspired everyone who knew them.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin, Sr. and Myrtle Thomas, and her beloved son-in-law, Michael Callen.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Willard Gayle Blackwell; her daughter, Suzonne Blackwell Callen, of Denver, Co.; her grandson John Michael Callen, and wife Kelly, of Denver, Co. Her brothers, William Mack Thomas (Sylvia) of Bossier City, LA; Melvin Thomas, Jr. (Mary) of Shongaloo, LA; David Thomas (Ginger) of Tyler, TX; and Jerry Thomas (Margie) of Leton, LA. She also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.
Peggy’s life was a beautiful reflection of Christ’s love. She quietly served, generously gave, faithfully prayed, and fiercely loved. Though her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in knowing she has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and is now at home with the Savior she loved so deeply.
Peggy spent a lifetime giving of herself to others. True to the way she lived, her final earthly gift was the donation of her body to science – a lasting expression of the compassion, generosity, and servant’s heart that defined her life.
Her family would like to say a special thank you to Town and Country Nursing & Rehab, Bristol Hospice, and her church family at First Baptist Church in Minden and the Leton/Shongaloo community for the many ways you have shown love and compassion to Peggy and her family.
A memorial service is being planned for a future date.