Peggy Pavlisin

Peggy Pavlisin, age 94, currently of Darien, IL and formerly of Cantrall, IL passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. Born on a dark and stormy night in the spring of 1931, she was named Peggy Irene Beasley, the daughter of Ernest and Mabel (Troutt) Beasley in Creal Springs, IL. Peggy married Michael Pavlisin on December 1, 1951. They were married for 67 years until he preceded her in death on December 26, 2018. She is also preceded in death by her siblings Robert Beasley, Harold Beasley, Cecil Beasley, James Beasley, Virginia Kelly, and great granddaughter Clara Peifer.

Mourning her passing are her children, Michael (Michele) Pavlisin, James (Pennie) Pavlisin, and Lisa (Jim) McKee; grandchildren Alex Pavlisin, Emily (James) Peifer, Audrey Pavlisin, Faith Pavlisin, Jack (Madison) Pavlisin, Hannah Pavlisin, Sarah Pavlisin, Patrick (Mary Kate) McKee and Carolyn (Matthew) Bayens; great-grandchildren Jude Bayens and Vincent McKee. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Peggy had many fond memories of growing up on the family farm in southern Illinois. Days were spent with her best friend Bonnie supervising a host of dolls. Upon graduation from Crab Orchard High School in 1948, she headed to Southern Illinois University at Carbondale on a scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education in 1952. She was an English major with minor degrees in Speech and Sociology. A dedicated student of her craft, she also completed a Masters in English from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, IL in 1966, a Masters in Communication from the University of Illinois at Springfield, IL in 1976, and a Doctor of Arts in English Education from Illinois State University in 1982.

Peggy thoroughly embraced teaching and taught at the middle school, high school, and college levels. For thirty-two years she was a nurturing presence at Lincoln Land Community College in Springfield, IL. During her tenure there she served as Chairperson of the English Department, developed Developmental and Technical Writing courses, developed a Writing Center that offered free tutoring in writing and grammar, and developed a Women’s Studies minor program for women pursuing a four-year degree. She retired in 2002 as Professor Emerita.

When Peggy was not rooting for the underdog at Lincoln Land Community College, she enjoyed reading, knitting, baking, and spending time with her family. She particularly enjoyed hosting or visiting her nine grandchildren. All the grandchildren learned to fish in the pond near her house, pick strawberries in late spring, and experience the magic of Christmas in Cantrall.

In conversation, Peggy offered perspectives that were thoughtful and meaningful, making one feel deeply connected to her. Her sweet smile and quiet demeanor encouraged genuine and heartfelt communication, and her love was freely shared. We were graced by her presence in our lives, and she will be forever in our hearts.

Visitation for Peggy will be held from 11:00 AM until time of funeral service at 12:30 pm on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Cantrall United Methodist Church in Cantrall, IL. Burial will be held immediately after the service at Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield, IL.

Memorial Contributions can be sent to Cantrall United Methodist Church 9406 State Rt 29, PO Box 123, Cantrall, IL 62625

Mott and Henning Funeral Home is assisting the family. Online condolences can be shared at www.mottandhenning.com