NEW ATHENS – Peggy Joyce Baker, 87, of New Athens, IL, was born on August 26, 1938, near Tilden, IL, and passed away on Friday, April 17, 2026, at her home in New Athens.

She was born the daughter of Wyman and Irene Webster Prest.

Peggy married William David Baker on March 13, 1958, in Hernando, MS. He preceded her in death on April 5, 2018.

She worked 4 years at Watt’s Grocery Store in Tilden while attending Sparta High School. After graduation she attended Central Technical Institute and worked for Braniff International Airways in Kansas City, MO, until her marriage to Bill. After the children were in school, she worked nearly 23 years as office secretary at the Marissa Elementary School.

Peggy and Bill enjoyed many years camping with their children as they grew up. During their retirement they especially loved spending their winters and summers in Florida and Colorado in their RV. They were avid followers of Big Band Ballroom Dancing.

Peggy is survived by children, Jeffrey (Marlene) Baker of Sparta, Gregory (Janet) Baker of Marissa, and Diane (Mark) Meyerhoff of Sparta; grandchildren, Matthew (Danielle) Rayoum, Matthew (Trish) Baker, Drew Ferguson, Christopher (Jamie) Baker, Megan Meyerhoff, and Justin (Jordan) Meyerhoff; and great grandchildren, Wyatt Baker, Elliot Baker, Rylee Klingeman, Jase Klingeman, Levi Baker, Walker Meyerhoff, Lexi Rayoum, Lucas Rayoum, and Colbi Rayoum.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Lyndon Prest.

Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Tilden Presbyterian Church, Tilden, IL, with Rev. Dr. Dennis A. Hamilton officiating. Burial will follow in the Marissa Township Cemetery, Marissa, IL. Visitation will be at the Tilden Presbyterian Church on Thursday from 9 am until 11 am. Memorials may be given to Pioneers, a mission organization in Orlando, Florida, that Peggy’s granddaughter works with in Africa.