Peggy Deaton Williams

Peggy Sue Deaton Williams, 79, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.  Peggy was born on October 17, 1946, in Booneville, Mississippi. She was the daughter of Ruben ‘Ruby’ and Opal (Green) Deaton.  She and her son, Shawn Rourke Simmons, who preceded her in death, moved from Mississippi to Florida in the early 1970s. Florida became home for Peggy for the remainder of her life.

Following in her mother’s footsteps, Peggy worked at Gainesville Florist before settling into a 33-year career at Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU). Peggy’s progression throughout her career at GRU paved the way for other women to attain many of the positions she held.

It was at the utility that Peggy met her husband Ron in the mid 1970s, while both were employed as meter readers. They married in 1977 and made Hawthorne their home in 1982. Peggy cherished the extensive travels she shared with Ron during their 48 years of marriage. Together they visited all 50 states, four continents and numerous countries. She also shared travels with her grandsons and close friends. 

A self-taught and talented artist, Peggy’s mastery of the watercolor and acrylic mediums can be seen throughout her home. Her love for chickens and lighthouses is reflected in the vast array of art present in her home, and they were among her favorite subjects to paint. Peggy generously gifted her artwork to family and friends during her lifetime and loved seeing it proudly displayed in their homes.

Peggy’s artful flair carried over to the grounds that surround the Williams’ home. Much to her delight, she and Ron created a haven for an assortment of wildlife which Peggy enjoyed observing from her favorite chair.

Peggy is survived by her beloved husband Ron Williams, grandsons Kelsey Shawn Lynn Simmons and Taylor Ryan Simmons, sister Shirley Mooreland, and many cherished nieces, nephews and friends. 

Crevasse’s Simple Cremation is honored to serve the Williams family.