Peggy Jean Rater Morrow
9/9/1932 - 1/27/2024
Peggy Jean Rater Morrow joined her Savior, Jesus Christ on Saturday, January 27th, 2024.
Peggy was born in Texas in Archer County, September 9, 1932 to George T. and Thena Mae Rater. She was the youngest of four children.
From first grade on, Peggy always loved school and had dreams of going to college. She worked hard, graduated valedictorian of her class, (“a class of 10”, she would always joke), and even though money was tight, her dad graciously agreed to help with the cost of schooling.
She graduated from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas with a Bachelor of Science degree. She worked part time on campus, one evening serving John Wayne at a VIP event. When she delivered his food, he said, “Thank you, Darling.” It was a most thrilling thank you, to say the least! There were many other memorable moments, including being chosen as Lady Midwestern as well as Outstanding Debater. Those of you who know Peggy are not surprised by this!
On a whim, Peggy went on a trip with the Midwestern BSU to New Mexico. Quite unexpectedly, she had a real encounter with God and it changed the trajectory of her life. Gerry Morrow met Peggy on that trip and saw in her the kind of woman he wanted to marry; strong willed, independent, smart, fun and a woman who loved the Lord. He pursued her for five years and they married in 1957 while he was stationed at Bryan Air Force Base as a fighter pilot. Gerry ultimately graduated from TAMU Vet school and became Director of Veterinary Medicine at King Ranch in Kingsville.
It was at First Baptist in Kingsville that Peggy found a great passion, sharing her love of Jesus with young people. Fondue parties for college students, scavenger hunts for high schoolers, overnight retreats for middle schoolers, Peggy and Gerry did all that and more, all while talking about the love God has for His people.
Peggy and Gerry had two children, Kristi and Kash. A wonderful stay-at-home-mom, Peggy had a great understanding of what was important and what was not: Coming home covered in mud from playing in the Santa Gertrudis Creek, no problem. Bringing home 7 baby possums to raise, no problem. Coming home later than was agreed upon…that was a problem!
She and Gerry moved to Kerrville in 1978 when Gerry became veterinarian for Shelton Ranches. They joined Trinity Baptist Church which became Peggy’s home church until her passing. She has loved being a member of the Jubilee class, enjoying Sunday school Bible discussions, 42 parties and Sunday lunches after church.
In 1983, “just for fun,” she entered the real estate field. Her love for people, aptitude for numbers and quick mind proved her to be a natural. Peggy was quite successful, working up until just a few years ago. In later years, she made 11 mission trips to Moldova (former Soviet Union country), working with orphan boys who won her heart. Two of these boys she remained in contact until her death, Ion and Sergiu, who call her Grandma.
Have we mentioned Peggy loved her grandchildren? They were the highlight and sparkle of her life. Athletic events, sheep shows, art shows, you name it, she was there to support her five grandkids. The grandkids always knew NanaPeg was “in the house” when they would hear her famous “woo-woo!!” cheer. She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Thena Mae Rater, as well as her brothers, Don and Dale (Lois) Rater, and her sister, Lorene (Glen) Brandon.
Peggy is survived by her daughter, Kristi Morrow Armstrong and husband Kirk, and her son, Kash Morrow and wife, Sally. She will always be NanaPeg to her five grandchildren, Clayton (Claire) Armstrong, Caitlin (Chad) Williamson, Kristin (Jacob) Trimm, and Savannah Morrow and Madison Morrow and to her seven great-grandchildren, Ryder, Shepherd, Julia and Jack Trimm, Benjamin and Aislinn Williamson and William Armstrong.
Visitation will be held from 3-5 PM, Sunday, February 11, 2024, at Grimes Funeral Chapels.
Services will be held at 1 PM, Monday, February 12, 2024, at Trinity Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. John Wheat.
Graveside services will be held at 2 PM, Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at the Antelope Cemetery in Antelope, Texas.
Obituary Provided By:
www.grimesfuneralchapels.com info@grimesfuneralchapels.com
830-257-4544
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