Margaret Stamey Obituary

Margaret (Peggy) McIntosh Stamey

March 17, 1931 - March 9, 2024

Raleigh, North Carolina - Peggy grew up in Asheville, NC, and attended the Plonk School of Creative Arts and Brevard College. There she met her wonderful husband, Jim Stamey, and together they raised four children: Dianna, Jimmy, Susan, and Melissa. Early in their marriage they moved to Washington, DC, where Peggy became the first woman to join the Friden Business Machines salesforce. As a devoted Roosevelt Democrat, Peggy returned to her home state to make a lasting difference. As a political pioneer she broke barriers as the first woman Chairperson of the Wake County Democratic Party and again when President Jimmy Carter appointed her to the South Atlantic Marine Fisheries Council, where she made history by being elected the first woman Chairperson.

In 1982, Peggy was elected to the NC House of Representatives for Wake County where she served with distinction and was appointed as the first woman Chairperson of the House Transportation Committee. She sponsored numerous bills including establishing Hospice/Transitions, the Keep NC Beautiful Wildflower Program, funding to preserve the Page-Walker House in Cary, and building the PNC Arena. Peggy's legislative legacy resulted in many awards and lasting legislation that benefited the entire state. In her final chapter of public service, she was appointed by Gov. Jim Hunt to serve on the NC Parole Commission where she continued to champion second chances. Peggy's life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to progress, equality, and a better life for all citizens.

Peggy was preceded in death by her husband Jim Stamey, daughter, Dianna Stamey Fulmer and son, Jimmy Stamey. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Stamey Steinhoff (Scott) of Roswell, GA, and daughter, Melissa Stamey Lennon (Pat) of Fuquay Varina, NC. Grandchildren: Jennifer Lennon Cotten (Chris) of Wilmington, NC, Sommer Fulmer Bower (Joshua) of Albany, GA, Mark Fulmer (Candice) of Brunswick, GA, and Stephanie Steinhoff McIntire (Michael) of Acworth, GA. Great-grandchildren: Ellis and Colby Cotten, Cade and Dianna Bower, James Fulmer, and Lily McIntire.

The family is grateful for her many wonderful friends, medical staff, and Transitions for their dedicated care. A remarkable woman, Peggy Stamey left an indelible mark and touched the lives of many. She believed in democracy and would encourage everyone to vote. Cards may be sent to 1385 Tennis Court Pl, Roswell, GA 30075. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Transitions hospice of Raleigh (transitionslifecare.org). Private internment of ashes will be at the historic Hillcrest Cemetery in Cary. Join us to share stories and memories at a Celebration of Life in her honor on Sunday, May 26, 2024 from 1-3 PM at The Mayton Inn in Cary.