Margaret "Peggy" Hovey Hilchey, 86, passed away January 15, 2021 at Nashua Crossings, due to complications from COVID-19. Peggy was born in Manchester, NH on May 5, 1934, daughter of Harold and Margaret (Morrison) Hovey. She was raised and educated in Manchester and graduated from Manchester Central High School. She had two older brothers, Harold and Ronald Hovey, both of whom she survived.

On September 14, 1957 Peggy married John Hilchey. Peggy and John lived with their family in Bedford for 38 years, where they enjoyed the friendship of many neighbors and close friends. They loved to host game nights and other social events, and enjoyed time traveling both as a couple and with their friends. Peggy worked in accounting for Public Service of New Hampshire; however, her proudest roles in life were being a wife, a mother, and a grandmother. She was compassionate, selfless, and above all, full of love for her family and friends. Those who knew her know that her children and grandchildren were her entire world.

Peggy and John retired to North Beach, Hampton, NH. Their home in Hampton was not just a retirement home - but a gathering place where life was celebrated every day with family and friends. Peggy enjoyed cooking, gardening, and taking walks to "The Wall" to enjoy the morning waves or fireworks at night. Her best times were spent with loved ones for happy hours on her deck, enjoying her beautiful beach flowers, and enjoying the memories of sharing so many special summers with her granddaughters.

Peggy moved to Nashua Crossings a year ago, making fast friends with both residents and staff alike. Many thanks to all at Nashua Crossings for their devoted care and compassion. Peggy was able to spend this past summer in Hampton surrounded by family and dear friends. Peggy had the BEST summer, full of trips to the beach and cherished memories at her favorite place. The summer of 2020 was full of so many happy, loving moments that her family and friends will treasure forever.

Peggy is survived by her loving children, Peter Hilchey and his wife Susan of Bedford, and Polly Shuman and her husband Rob of Nashua; her four beautiful granddaughters, Linnea Hilchey of Goffstown, Jennifer Hilchey of Chandler, AZ, and Elizabeth and Hannah Shuman of Boston, MA; and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind her beloved friends and neighbors of Kings Highway in North Beach, Hampton.

Services: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the funeral service will be held in private for immediate family. Internment will be held in May at The Pine Grove Cemetery in Manchester, along with a celebration of Peggy's life in North Beach, Hampton - her happy place.

In lieu of sending flowers, Peggy's family asks to please consider planting flowers in your own garden or yard come springtime, as a beautiful memorial to her life. For those who wish to make a donation in her honor, donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America (https:// www.dementiasociety.org/donate).