On Sept. 27, 2026, Margaret “Peg” Ann MacNeill, loving daughter, sister, aunt, and friend passed away at age 75 while in the exceptional care of Hospicare in Ithaca. Born Aug. 17, 1951, in Walton, to her parents Joyce and Arthur MacNeill. Peg grew up as the eldest sister to William (Susan) of Whitney Point, Jon who predeceased her this past January (Nancy) of Walton, and Dan (Sherrie) of Homer.
Peg was a lifelong servant to all. After graduating from O’Neil High School in Walton, class of 1969, she attended and graduated from SUNY Potsdam with a degree in social work in 1973. Additionally, she attained a master’s degree from Fordham University along with professional licensing that spurred a career of service as a State of New York social worker. In her 52-year career, Peg touched countless lives in the New York state communities. Years spent as a dedicated advocate and caretaker for the mentally disabled. She oversaw group homes in the Albany, downstate, and the Binghamton areas. That service included fostering legislation to better the lives of those she serviced as administrator and counselor. Her final employment was in Cortland County working as a therapist for Family Health Network.
Peg was a devoted family member and friend. Her gentle spirit permeated all she touched. That spirit was easy to consume as she was a great listener who evaded judgment. She fought a physical battle for years with grace while always comforting those around her. Peg’s joy was celebrating with her family and friends, including nieces, Jessica, Tara, Mikayla and Maura, nephews Chris, Eric, and Kevin, and five grandnieces and grandnephews. Peg’s friendships were numerous. Cherished were her lifelong college friends; sisters Jessica (predeceased) and Wanda Newell (Beekman) and Sheila Dai (Warren, Rhode Island). Other colleagues and close friends Tara Belsare (Binghamton), Nancy Dickerson (Binghamton) and neighbor Ann Viau (Cortland).
Peg will be remembered in many ways, as people will always remember how one made them “feel.” Her sweet demeanor and positive selfless spirit were Peg’s specialty, all the while focusing on others and making them feel safe, comfortable, and good.
Peg loved adventure and had many, from taking a comedy class and accepting a challenge as a standup comedian in NYC, and attending a world-class culinary institute to learn the art of a great sauce. She rafted the Adirondacks as well as the rapids in Colorado. In college, Peg helped manage a rock band and in 1969 she traveled to Woodstock. She enjoyed trips to Scotland, Alaska, the Caribbean, and Hawaii. She cruised with anyone that would join her, including going out on her pontoon boat on Owasco Lake and a cruise that ended with a newly-discovered and tasty cocktail. Peg enthusiastically followed the Kansas City Chiefs and celebrity Hugh Jackman. She would go to great lengths to gather the ‘right’ ingredients to plan and prepare a well-made meal. Creatively she aspired to author a novel, loved a good story, show, concert, fireworks, or a well-placed bet. Peg relished a game of dominoes or cards, the competition, and the company of others.
Peg’s wishes are for a graveside celebration of life, the date of which is yet to be determined. Her remains will be placed next to her parents in Walton Cemetery, Walton. Rather than flowers or trees, Peg’s desire, and her family’s recommendation, is a donation to her final residence: Hospicare & Palliative Care, 172 E King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850.
