Peggy Jo Destafney, 92, of Pensacola, FL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. She was born on June 6, 1933, to Fred and Maxine Buchanan.

In August of 1949, Peggy Jo married MGySgt. James DeStafney, USMC (1928-1987), at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Canoga Park, CA. Together they shared many years of love and partnership, supporting one another through the adventures and challenges of Marine Corps life.

A devoted homemaker, Peggy Jo raised five sons and a daughter while traveling and living at her husband's military stations in Camp Lejeune, NC, Morocco, HI, Okinawa, and Key West. She created a warm, welcoming home wherever they went, and her kindness and resilience left lasting impressions on everyone she met.  She never forgot a birthday or a graduation.

Peggy Jo enjoyed bowling, playing softball and spending time with her family. She will be remembered for her quiet strength, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James (Gus) and her sister, Betty Mae Keylon (1925-2023).

Peggy Jo is survived by her brother, Fred Martin Buchanan; children, James Joseph DeStafney Jr., Charles Martin DeStafney, Thomas Michael DeStafney, Robert Wade DeStafney, Martha Marie DeStafney, Timothy John DeStafney; 15 grandchildren and 8 Great-Grandchildren.

A Visitation will be held at 10:00 am until a Funeral Mass is celebrated at 11:00 am Thursday July 17, 2025, at Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church 9945 Hillview Dr. Pensacola, FL 32514, burial will follow at Barrancas National Cemetery.

Peggy's legacy lives on in the love she shared, the family she nurtured, and the many lives she touched.