Margaret "Peggy" Featherer Panetti - Obituary

argaret Featherer Panetti, lovingly known as Peggy, was born on October 31, 1932, to Estella and Lester Featherer in the town of Wenonah, New Jersey. After a brief stay in hospice care, she went peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on December 23, 2025. Peggy was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Jacob Frederick Panetti III, with whom she shared a life rooted in love, faith, and family. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, affection, and a deep sense of togetherness. She is survived by her two daughters, Linda and Marianne; her sons-in-law, Joe Grierson and Rick Hirsch; her grandchildren, Matthew and Emmy Grierson, Amanda and Paul, Kim, Caleb, and Olivia Hirsch, and her four cherished great-grandchildren, Grace, Gabriel, Elijah, and Noah. Her dog, Bailey, was her constant and loyal companion. He brought her much joy and happiness during his lifetime. Peggy met Fred while attending Washington College on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. During her college years, she and a group of close friends were walking through downtown one afternoon, singing the familiar tune “On Top of Old Smoky.” Their youthful voices and joyful spirits drew attention, and Fred—who happened to hear them—was compelled to join in. Though he didn’t know all the lyrics, he was clearly captivated, perhaps as much by Peggy herself as by the song. Wanting an excuse to continue the encounter, Fred asked Peggy if she would write down the words for him. Later that evening, he came to her dormitory to retrieve the lyrics, and from that simple, lighthearted exchange, a lifelong partnership began. Peggy and Fred were married in June of 1952. In the years that followed, they welcomed two daughters, Linda and Marianne, forming a close and loving family of four. Linda and Marianne were fortunate to enjoy a childhood filled with happiness and security. Family life often centered around the natural beauty of the Chesapeake Bay, where crabbing and fishing were favorite pastimes. Each year, they eagerly anticipated a family trip to Ocean City, New Jersey, creating traditions and memories that would be cherished for a lifetime. Our parents loved the Lord, and as a result, many of our family activities were rooted in church life. Peggy shared her gifts by playing the piano for countless Bible studies, churches, and children’s choirs. Our mother and father carried their faith and devotion to the Lord throughout their entire lives. In later years, Peggy continued her life of service by volunteering with Birthright, where she compassionately counseled young pregnant women. She also faithfully served in her church office. Through these ministries, she became involved in filling blessing bags alongside a sweet and dedicated group of women known as the Golden Girls. The friendships she formed with these ladies became deeply meaningful and cherished bonds. Peggy was also part of a group of ladies called Girls Night Out, known affectionately as GNO. They met regularly to share their lives, uphold one another in prayer, and enjoy a delicious meal together. These friends were an important part of our mom’s life during her later years. The younger women loved her, and her age never seemed to matter— her warmth, wisdom, and joy drew them close. Peggy and Fred loved to travel and ventured on a few memorable trips together. Hawaii was their favorite. They loved it so much that years later, they sent Linda and Marianne and their husbands on a trip that will always be remembered as one of fun and adventure. They also shared a love of gardening. Much of their time was spent buying and planting new flowers and shrubs, eventually designing a large rock garden in their backyard in Admiral Heights. Many evenings, we would see them holding hands and strolling through the yard, admiring the beauty of God’s creation. Peggy will be remembered and treasured by her family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and dear friends. She had a loving heart, an enduring faith, a deep devotion to her family, and a smile and laugh that will never be forgotten. The values she passed down will continue to live on through all who loved her. Mom, we love you so much, and you will be missed by so many. This is not goodbye, for we look forward to the day when we will see you again and hold you in one glorious reunion. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Peggy's life at her funeral service on Monday, January 5, 2026 at 12 noon at Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory, 2973 Solomons Island Road, Edgewater, MD. Interment to follow at Loudon Park Cemetery in Baltimore. Online condolences may be made using the Memories tab on this page.