Margaret Calestro

June 24, 1946 - December 10, 2020

Margaret (Peggy) Calestro June 24, 1946 – December 10, 2020 Peggy was born in New York City but spent her childhood in Ann Arbor, which continued to influence her throughout her life: liberal politics with an emphasis on social justice, lifelong learning, Motown music, and Big Ten football. She was fortunate to have a long and rewarding career dedicated to improving the lives of others, especially disadvantaged women and children. As an administrator and development professional for more than forty years, she designed, supervised, and secured funding for a variety of programs. Peggy held leadership positions at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the Center for New Directions, the Higher Education Council of Columbus, Columbus State Community College, and the Ohio Children’s Foundation. Peggy was privileged to serve as a Board member of fifteen local and national not-for-profit organizations. She was an outspoken advocate for Appalachian history and culture, informing others through articles, a book co-written with her daughter Julie, and numerous workshops. Her most recent publication, Medical Emergencies: A Guide for Navigating the Healthcare System, will be published by the beginning of next year. She had a pragmatic, analytical mind, tempered by her sense of humor, appreciation for the importance of music in our lives, and an openness to the spiritual world. Peggy received her undergraduate degree in English from Duke University and an M.B.A. from Franklin University. She was a lifelong English major, enjoying good fiction and not shy about confronting incorrect grammar. Peggy was predeceased by her parents, Marcus and Gerry Plant; Ken, her college sweetheart and husband of fifty years; and her dear sister, Betsy. She is survived by her children, Julie and Brady, whom she considered to be her greatest contributions to the world; her brother Mark (London, England); her sister Nancy, niece Kate, and brother-in-law, George Jarecke (Bainbridge Island, WA); her son-in-law, Jerry L. McDonald (Columbus, OH); Her sister Betsy Gallagher’s family (Owen Sound, ONT); the Waldman, and Kruse families (CT); and wonderful, supportive friends. A gathering to celebrate her life will be held at a later time, when we can safely exchange hugs and share memories. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to a fund the family is establishing to help disadvantaged families at a small health clinic in West Virginia. Contributions may be made in her name to Dr. Joanna Bailey, c/o Tug River Health Association, P.O Box 430, Pineville, West Virginia 24874.