Peggy Ethridge Dennard, 83, of Fernandina Beach, FL passed away peacefully while in Hospice care in the presence of family on July 26th, 2021. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Irvin Dennard Jr. and her parents Lillie and Herschel Etheridge. Peggy graduated from Fernandina Beach High School where she was the Class of 1955 valedictorian, a member of the National Honor Society, and a basketball and football cheerleader. She attended Stetson University, graduated from the University of Florida, and received her master’s degree from the University of North Florida. She retired from Nassau County Schools as The Director of Media and Instructional Support.
She was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church of Fernandina Beach, where she was a Sunday School teacher for over 60 years. She continued to be an active member in the church and served on various committees including pastoral search, building, and finance. She loved singing in the church choir over the years and being a part of her favorite ministries: Barnabas, Council for Aging, and various Prayer Groups. Peggy was also passionate about the Historical Society of Fernandina, Book Donations for the Souix ministry, a Woman’s Club Member of Fernandina Beach, the Florida Gator Alumni Association, and the Retired Teachers Association of Nassau County. As an avid reader and Librarian for many years, she shared her love for reading and storytelling with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling to see her family and exploring the world. Her travels took her to Israel, London, Jordan, Alaska, Hawaii, and many other places. Peggy loved cooking for others and enjoyed sharing her recipes, baking, and chocolate goodies. She always challenged herself to complete sudokus, crosswords and jigsaw puzzles weekly.
She got her sense of style from her mother and her work ethic from her father. Peggy loved her children deeply, but once her grandchildren came along, they were the light of her life!
She leaves behind a daughter Leslie Dennard Herbert, her spouse William Ricky Herbert, a son, William Irvin Dennard III (Trey). Grandchildren Dillon Mercer Herbert, Emee Alyssa Herbert and her spouse Ryanne Haddow, William Irvin Dennard IV and his spouse Lydia Dennard, and Addison Delaney Dennard. As well as sister-in-law Lasse Dennard Gammage and many nieces and nephews.

Peggy loved her family, her country, and the Florida Gators. A private service to celebrate her life will be held among a small group of family and friends.

Pallbearers include, IV Dennard, Dillon Herbert, Mike Hoepfinger, Ted Williams, Rick Herbert, Chris McKendree, Jon Shave, Jeff Shave, and Tommy Shave and Joey Lee.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Community Hospice or the Barnabas Center. Details for a future celebration of life will be forthcoming.