Laura Beth Pegler

Laura Beth Pegler, age 64, of Seymour, died on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at her home.

She was a talented photographer and a creative spirit who enjoyed embroidery, cross-stitching, and crafting. Laura had eclectic interests, from NASCAR to old movies, and was a treasure trove of knowledge about classic Hollywood—able to recall actors, their backgrounds, and the history of films with incredible detail. She had a lifelong love of nature and, after moving to Tennessee to be close to family, found solace in the mountains, often visiting two to three times a week. Her love for the Smokies was beautifully captured in her breathtaking nature photography. She always had a deep respect for the environment and even understood the rhythms of nature, such as when the turtles would hatch at the beach.

Before moving to Tennessee, Laura lived in Florida, where she watched manatees in the canal with the children in her life. Though she never had children of her own, being an aunt was one of her greatest joys. She cherished her time with her nephew’s newborn son, holding him for hours every Sunday she could.

Aunt Laura was also a proud “cat lady,” deeply devoted to her feline companions. But above all, she will be remembered for her deep empathy—always rooting for the underdog and offering kindness wherever it was needed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey “Peg” and Elaine Pegler, and her “soul cat,” Midnight.

She is survived by her niece, Kimber Pegler; nephew, Mark Pegler; grandnephew, Maddox Pegler; sister-in-law, Tanya Magness; lifelong friends, Carol Ford Hersey and Marciana O’Halloran; her adventure mountain friend Carla Weeks; and her cherished cats.

A memorial service will be held at 7:00 PM on Friday, April 11 at her church, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 10231 Sherrill Blvd, Knoxville, TN 37932, officiated by Pastor Scott Henrich. Visitation will be from 6:00-7:00 PM prior to the service. Cremation Done Properly under the care of Dotson Funeral Home & Cremation, Wildwood (865-984-5959). Online condolences and memories may be shared at dotsonfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to your favorite local animal charity.

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