Margery E. Peffer

Margery Elaine (Dickey) Peffer, age 95, of Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024. She was a long-time resident of Pittsburgh, PA, and spent her retirement years at Longwood at Oakmont and more recently, the Residence at Chadds Ford. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, on August 19, 1928, she was the daughter of the late Lloyd Dickey and the late Muriel (Dott) Dickey. She was predeceased by her husband of 67 years John “Jack” Peffer, her sister, Virginia Baird, and her brother, George “Buddy” Dickey. 

Margery earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Allegheny College, and a Master's in Library Science from Carnegie Institute of Technology. Her 45-year career at Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Science & Technology Dept. (with a break for kids) was capped by the publication of two widely read editions of “The Handy Science Answer Book.” Marge’s life was centered around family and friends at the Christian Church of Wilkinsburg, where she was a lifelong member. She served the congregation and community in many ways: as treasurer and trustee, officer of the Christian Women’s Fellowship, soprano in the choir, and Bethany Class member. After retirement, she helped to create the “New to You Shop” at the church, a community thrift shop that has served hundreds of people over the decades. 

Margery is survived by her children, Linda Powell, Richard Peffer, and Nancy Peffer, and their spouses, Jerry Powell, Patty Peffer, Jeff Arriza. She cherished spending time with her four grandchildren, Susan Powell and Dana Buchbinder; Emily and Eric Peffer, their spouses, Ben Hansell, Ishai Buchbinder, Derek Dulaney; and four great-grandchildren, Sam, Morris, Starry, Fern. 

Marge and Jack shared a love of classical music, singing in the church choir, long driving vacations with their children, and playing golf and bridge. Science was a common theme in the Peffer household, and all three children pursued careers in the sciences. Margery had a quick and active mind, a warm smile, and a gift for subtle humor that enriched the lives and brought joy to those who knew her. 

A memorial service for the family will be held privately from 10 – 11am on August 17, 2024; friends may call on the family from 11am – 12 pm at First Baptist Church, 415 West State St, Kennett Square, PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Margery's memory may be made to Christian Church of Wilkinsburg, 748 Wallace Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15221. 

Arrangements are by Matthew Grieco of Grieco Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (484-734-8100) of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. To view Margery’s online obituary and leave condolences, please visit www.griecofunerals.com