Margaret E "Peggy" DeLass age 93, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, in Statesville, North Carolina.

Born on November 15, 1932, in Rochester, New York, Peggy lived a long and vibrant life marked by dedication to her family, community, and faith.  Peggy spent the majority of her life in Ontario, New York, where she became a beloved fixture in the community.  For over 50 years, she served as a school bus driver for the Wayne Central School District in Ontario.  Generations of children began and ended their school days with Peggy's steady presence behind the wheel.  Her commitment to safety and her no-nonsense warmth left a lasting impression on countless families.

A woman of deep faith and service, Peggy was a devoted member of St Mary's of the Lake catholic church for more than 80 years.  She volunteered as an usher at masses and was always ready to lend a hand wherever needed.  Her dedication extended beyond the church walls into the heart of her community.  She was an active member of the Ontario Volunteer Emergency Squad for many years and proudly served with the Ontario Fireman Ladies auxiliary for an extraordinary 60 years.  Peggy had an unmistakable spirit-full of pep, hardworking, fun-loving, and never afraid to speak her mind.  She had a gift for making people laugh and feel welcome while also being known for giving family and friends "the business" when they needed it.

Whether working in the greenhouse or at the market, driving and ambulance, or baking cookies and applesauce at home, Peggy poured herself into everything she did.  She loved flowers and could often be found tending to them or enjoying walks around town.  A passionate reader of Harlequin romances and a dedicated bowler who continued to bowl right up until her passing, Peggy embraced life with energy and enthusiasm the inspired those around her.

Peggy's legacy lives on through her loving family: daughter, Susan (Rodney) Knapp; sons, Michael (Becky) DeLass, John P (Lisa) DeLass, JC (Michele) DeLass; daughter, Jennifer (David) Knorr; grandchildren, Samantha, Stephen, Leigh, Jordan, Joel, Jessica, Gabrielle, Karleigh, and Miranda; eight great-grandchildren; and a sister, Marilyn Deichmiller.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Merle DeLass.

Friends and family are invited to a time of visitation on Wednesday January 14th from 4-7pm at Murphy Funeral & Cremation Chapel, 1961 Ridge Road, Ontario, NY 14519.  A Funeral Mass will be held Thursday, January 15th at 10:00 am at St. Mary's of The Lake, 5823 Walworth Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Interment Furnaceville Cemetery.

Peggy was truly one of a kind-a woman whose strength of character was matched only by her generosity of spirit.  May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pines of Peace , 2378 Ridge Road, Ontario, NY 14519 or the Gordon Hospice House , 2347 Simonton Rd, Statesville, NC 28625.

To leave the family a memory or online condolence, please visit Peggy's tribute wall at www.murphyfuneralservices.com.