Peggy Ellen Gillispie

Peggy Ellen Gillispie

September 16, 1962- September 4, 2024

Peggy Ellen Gillispie, a vibrant and bright soul, departed unexpectedly on September 4, 2024, at her home in Camano Island, Washington, at the age of 61. Born September 16, 1962, in Madrid, Spain to Mary and John Gillispie, Peggy's curious, playful nature was evident from early childhood, as she spent her days catching lizards in the Spanish sun.

Peggy moved to Havre, Montana, at the age of 2. The fifth of eight children, she stood out among her siblings with her mischievous spirit and exceptional intellect. Growing up in a close-knit family, Peggy had numerous childhood adventures; playing in the yard with her sisters, exploring the Bear Paw Mountains with her brother Johnnie, and teasing her younger brother Garrett. Her brilliance secured her place in the prestigious Mensa Society, and her creative talents shone through art and poetry.

In 1977, Peggy welcomed her eldest daughter, Nancy Warehime, into the world in Helena, Montana. Following this, she pursued her higher education in Havre and married John Schmaing in 1982. Their journey led them to New Hampshire, where they were blessed with a son, Kyle Schmaing in 1984, and a few years later her youngest daughter, Kathe Schmaing, in Billings, Montana.

Peggy continued her relentless commitment to family and community as she obtained her Master's Degree in Billings and then settled in Roundup, dedicating herself to social services – her true calling. Peggy's compassionate work as a social worker had a profound impact on countless children's lives, providing stability, guidance, and hope to all she met throughout her career.

In 2014, Peggy moved to Lynnwood, Washington, and later found roots on Camano Island, embracing her love for animals, wildflowers, and nature and enjoying games, crafts, knitting, baking, and candy-making. However, her cherished grandchildren and the enduring influence of her social work on others were her life's greatest joys.

All are invited to celebrate Peggy's remarkable life on Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 2 pm at the Camano Center on Camano Island or via live stream by contacting [email protected] for details.

Peggy is survived by three children, Nancy Warehime (Bryan Poss), Kyle Schmaing (Lindsey Gunderson), and Kathe Schmaing; her mother, Mary Gillispie; siblings, Patricia Treybal (Russ Treybal), Mary Ann Rohner (Gary Rohner), Juanita Sanborn (Darrell Sanborn), John Gillispie (Karen Glasgow), Sherry Brewster (Robert Brewster), Ginger McIntosh (Mike McIntosh), and Garrett Gillispie (Kami Gillispie); grandsons, Blaze Poss, Wolfgang Schmaing, and Rainhart Schmaing alongside extended family and close friends. She was preceded in death by her father, John Gillispie, and ex-husband, John Schmaing.