Peggy Jo (Downey) Quillen

Peggy Quillen (née Downey) peacefully passed away in her home on February 11, 2026 in Greenwood, Indiana. 

Peggy—better known and loved by many as “Ma”—was the heart of her family. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Teresa Quillen; her daughter, Julie O’Brien; and her grandsons, Jon (Rachel) O’Brien, Logan O’Brien, and Brandon Quillen. 

Ma was born on February 11, 1940, in Morgantown, Indiana, to Joseph and Elma Downey. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Richard and William Downey. She graduated from Morgantown High School and later met her husband, Jon, who attended Trafalgar High School. They were married in 1959, sharing 32 years of marriage together. 

Growing up, Ma was a member of the Morgantown Baptist Church and later became a member of the Kappa Kappa Sigma Sorority. She dedicated many years of service to the Sprint Telephone Company in Franklin, Indiana, where she worked until her retirement in 1999. 

Retirement allowed Ma to fully embrace the things she loved most—especially time with her grandchildren. From afternoons at the pool to cherished “Fun Day Fridays,” she created memories that will be treasured forever. She enjoyed traveling to Florida, completing her daily crossword puzzle, reading books and the newspaper, and hosting her beloved Christmas Eve gatherings, complete with Christmas Bingo for everyone. She was a loyal Indiana Pacers fan, and she also loved watching horse track racing. 

Ma took great pride in her yard, finding joy in yardwork and mowing the lawn. She had a soft spot for animals—taking care of neighborhood cats, watching squirrels in her yard, and lovingly pet-sitting for animals she considered part of the family. 

Above all, Ma will be remembered for her love, her routines, her generosity, and the way she made everyone feel at home. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will miss her deeply and love her always.

A graveside service will be held for friends and family at 1 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026 at East Hill Cemetery in Morgantown. Arrangements have been entrusted to Meredith Funeral Home in Morgantown.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages and welcomes donations to the Johnson County Animal Shelter 2160 N. Graham Road, Franklin, IN 46131.

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