Peggy Joyce Cooper Wilkinson, born on June 22, 1931, in Jackson, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2024, in Madison, Mississippi, at the age of 93. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Peggy lived a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for those around her.

Peggy was married to her devoted husband, Gene A. Wilkinson, for 64 years. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family and community. Peggy was a proud mother to her son, Alan Wilkinson of Jackson, and a cherished grandmother to Lake Wilkinson of Nashville, Tennessee. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Mitzi, and her step granddaughters, Delaney Wallace of Starkville, Mississippi, and Shelby Terrell (Austin) of Oxford, Mississippi, along with her great-granddaughter, Frannie Terrell.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gene, and her parents I.W. and Annie Lee Cooper.

A graduate of Central High School in Jackson, Peggy received a singing scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi. Early in her career, she briefly worked at Lamar Life Insurance Company before dedicating herself to supporting her husband's legal career and raising their son. Her proudest accomplishments included being a confidant, cheerleader, and advisor to Gene, while instilling values of hard work, compassion and kindness in her son and grandson.

Peggy had a heart full of empathy and a loving nature, always looking out for those around her. She was a friend and listener to anyone who needed someone to talk to, making everyone feel special in her presence. Peggy enjoyed hosting parties, cooking, and spending time at her beloved condo in Destin, Florida, where she cherished the view overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

As a communicant at St. Columb's Episcopal Church in Ridgeland, she believed in the goodness of people and had an extraordinary ability to help others recognize their own talents and potential. Peggy worked tirelessly behind the scenes with her husband in various political campaigns and for various civic and charitable groups, contributing to her community in many meaningful ways.

Her delightful spirit and lively personality were evident until the end; she was still driving herself around just three weeks before her passing. Peggy will be remembered as a classy Southern lady, whose warmth and caring demeanor touched the lives of all who knew her. Her legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

The family expresses its gratitude for the skillful care and support provided by the nurses and staff of 6A at Baptist Medical Center.

Services will be held at 3pm on Saturday, November 16, 2024 at St. Columb's Episcopal Church, Ridgeland with visitation from 2pm until service time.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Columb's Episcopal Church, 550 Sunnybrook Road, Ridgeland, MS 39157