Margaret Ann Nelson, lovingly known as Peg or Peggy to those closest to her, passed peacefully on January 25, 2026, surrounded by friends and family. She joyfully joined many beloved family members and friends in the Lord’s House—on the same date fourteen years after the passing of her dear Aunt Laverne.

Born on November 20, 1942, in Helena, Montana, Peg was the first child of Dorothy(Warren) and Bill McEnaney. She was a proud fourth-generation descendant of original Irish and English pioneers in Helena, a heritage she cherished deeply.

Peg graduated from Western Montana College in Dillon, Montana, in 1965, and later earned her Master of Education degree from Montana State University on August 16, 1985. Her lifelong love of learning and teaching was evident to all who knew her.

While working her first job after college in Boulder, Montana, Peg met her future husband, Leland Roy Nelson. They were married on July 9, 1966, in Boulder, Montana, and in 1968 made their home in Bozeman. Together they raised two children, their son Troy Michael Nelson and their daughter Tara Leanne Nelson, both born in Bozeman.

Peg devoted many years as a beloved elementary teacher at Whittier School in Bozeman, where she was known for her kindness, dedication, and ability to make every child feel welcomed and valued. In 1995, Peg and Lee moved to Powell, Wyoming where they built a rich life filled with close friendships, service, and community.

Peg embraced life fully. Her many passions included painting, baking, quilting, singing, volunteering at the local hospital, and involvement in numerous organizations and social groups, including P.E.O., the Red Hat Society, Hope Lutheran Church, Christian Women’s Club, Bridge clubs, multiple book clubs, the “So Happy It’s Thursday” Club, AAUW, and many other long-standing organizations. She was always eager to help, naturally drawn to organizing and planning, and deeply committed to bringing people together.

Peg was especially well known for her exceptional hosting talents. A wonderful cook and gracious hostess, time spent in her home was always joyful—filled with good food, laughter, and meaningful conversation. Her home was a place where people felt comfortable, connected, and truly welcomed.

To all who knew her, Peg was a ray of light—cheerful, friendly, welcoming, and a friend to all. She was a devoted mother, a loving grandmother, and a true matriarch of her family. Known as “Grammy” to her grandchildren, she found her greatest purpose and joy in family.

Faith was a central part of Peg’s life. She was raised in the Catholic Church and later worshiped faithfully at Hope Lutheran Church in both Bozeman and Powell.

Despite significant health struggles later in life, Peg remained remarkably strong and persevered through many challenging times with grace and resilience. She never lost her warmth, optimism, or gentle spirit and was truly an eternal optimist, always choosing hope and joy.  She was received in heaven by many dear friends and loved ones who went before her.

Peg is survived by her son, Troy Nelson (Sarah); her daughter, Tara Nelson; her brother, Jim McEnaney (Maureen); her grandchildren, Allie Stone (Andrew), Sydney Nelson, and Ian Nelson; and her great-grandson, Orin Stone.

Acknowledgments 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the kindness, compassion, and exceptional care Peg received at Powell Valley Hospital, Cody Regional Hospital, and during long-term care. They also wish to thank friends and family for the many prayers, messages, and words of encouragement. Peg felt deeply surrounded by love in her final days, a comfort beyond measure.

A memorial service will be held in Powell, Wyoming this summer. Peg will be laid to rest alongside her husband, Lee, with interment at Sunset Hills Cemetery in Bozeman, Montana, following the memorial service this summer.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to an association of your choice in Peg’s honor.