Margaret Mothershead Obituary

Margaret Mary 'Peggy' Mothershead

October 17, 1937 - June 22, 2025

Margaret Mary Mothershead passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025. She was 87 years old.

Peggy was born on October 17, 1937, in Cambridge, Mass., and spent her childhood moving frequently as the daughter of a U.S. Navy serviceman. From coastal towns to overseas posts, including a period living in Panama, she learned early how to adapt, stay resilient, and carry a sense of home with her wherever she went.

Following in her father's footsteps, Peggy joined the U.S. Air Force, where she met her future husband, Douglas Mothershead, a Navy man, while both were stationed in New Jersey. Their romance led to a quiet elopement in South Bend, Ind., on October 3, 1959. The announcement to Doug's family was a simple letter, he was married, bringing home his wife, and he hoped they'd like her.

The young couple began their life together on the ranch at Bridger Creek in Mo., helping Doug's father while building up their own place at Silver Creek. It was a long way from the cities Peggy had known, and the transition to ranch life came with its share of challenges, and humorous missteps. She adapted with grace, wit, and determination, bringing her own brand of strength to a rugged environment.

Peggy's role on the ranch was centered around home and family. She made a life that was warm, steady, and full of care. Whether keeping everyone fed, mended, and organized, or holding down the fort during long days of work outside, she was the foundation that everything else rested on. Her stories of those early years are still told with fondness and laughter.

She also brought that same energy and organization to the community. Peggy ran a small travel agency, was an active participant in local politics, and regularly volunteered during elections. She believed in showing up, doing her part, and staying informed. Her sharp wit and deeply rooted sense of humor were hallmarks of her personality, and many will remember her for her unmistakable sass, always quick with a remark, a grin, or a story that cut straight to the point.

Peggy and Doug welcomed two sons, Duane in 1960 and Richard in 1962. In the 1970s, the family moved to the ranch at Upper Deer Creek, where Peggy continued her quiet leadership at the heart of their home and community.

Every fall, Peggy took charge of the tally book at the shipping yards, carefully recording calf weights and keeping the numbers straight. But her role didn't stop there, she also made sure the crews working cattle were well taken care of, with plenty of hot coffee and a good meal waiting at the end of a long day. Whether it was a branding, shipping, or any other ranch event, Peggy had a gift for bringing people together and making sure everyone was fed, warmed, and welcomed.

She loved to crochet, embroider, craft, and work puzzles. For years, she and her friends held court over coffee every morning at the Four Winds Inn, always at their regular table, where the local gossip was as important as the coffee itself.

Peggy was preceded in death by her husband, Douglas; her sons, Duane and Richard; and her sister, Claire. She is survived by her grandchildren, Cortney Mothershead, Dustan Mothershead, Lacy Mothershead, and Aidan Mothershead; her great-granddaughter, Avery Gill; her sister Catherine Preffer. Her family, friends, and community will miss her deeply.

Memorial services will be held 1 p.m., Saturday July 26 at the American Legion Post #19 in Big Timber, inurnment with military honors to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.

To leave condolences for the family please visit www.stenbergfuneralhome.com.