Manchaug – Margaret J. “Peg” (Smith) Gagner, 82, of Manchaug, peacefully passed away on May 11, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Peg was born and raised in Westborough, MA, the daughter of the late Delmina (Gabrielli) Smith and Robert Smith.
She graduated from Westborough High School class of 1959 and remained closely connected with many of her classmates throughout her life, and enjoyed their class reunions and monthly lunches with the girls.
In the mid-sixties, Peg moved to Manchaug, where she raised her family and became an integral part of the community. She was actively involved in the Manchaug Mother’s Club, served as a Boy Scout den mother, and chaperoned many school trips.
Peg’s social calendar was always brimming with Tupperware, Princess House, or home decor parties. She had a strong creative side and pursued numerous hobbies including painting, rug hooking, ceramics, doll making, quilting, knitting, and cake decorating. Finishing the daily crossword puzzle in ink was as automatic as clearing the Jeopardy board night after night. She loved a good road trip, either with girlfriends, couples, her husband, or her dear red hatter group. Newport and Narragansett were amongst her most memorable.
A successful career in food service spanned decades, with Peg leaving her mark at establishments such as Harry’s in Westborough, Worcester’s Messier’s Diner, and Barbara’s Place in Whitinsville. Her crowning achievement was Peg’s Diner, a cherished community hub that continues to thrive under the stewardship of her son and grandsons. For generations, the diner has been a place of comfort, laughter, and friendship, a testament to Peg’s enduring legacy.
Peg was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alfred J. Gagner Jr., in 2007, and her nephew, Glenn Briand, in 2020. She is survived by her daughter, Karen Bronson, and husband Michael; sons, Alfred “Jim” Gagner III and wife Caryn, and Steven Gagner and wife Jennifer; grandchildren, Jillian Bronson, Derek Bronson and his wife Catherine, Brady Simmons, Tiffany Orozoco and her husband Marc, Alfred “AJ” Gagner IV, Christopher Gagner, and Paige Gagner; great-grandchildren, MJ, Alex, and Hendrix Orozoco; brother, Robert Smith and wife Linda of Westborough; nieces Jeannine and Candace; nephews Mark and Robert; cousins Jim, Terry, Janice, and David, and many treasured friends.
Peg’s vibrant spirit, unwavering kindness, and boundless love will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Peg’s funeral service will be held in Jackman Funeral Home, 12 Spring St., Whitinsville on Friday, May 17th at 11AM. Burial will follow in St Patrick’s cemetery. Calling hours at Jackman Funeral Home, will be held on Thursday, May 16th from 4- 6PM and on Friday prior to the service from 10-11 AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Peg’s memory may be made to the Sutton Senior center or charity of your choice.
To leave a condolence message please visit: http://www.Jackmanfuneralhomes.com.
