Obituary of Margaret Sperry
Margaret "Peg" Sperry, a devoted wife, treasured friend, passionate collector, and loving family member, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on August 25, 2025.
Born on May 31, 1939, in Islip, New York, to Arthur and Dorothy Ball, Peg grew up in a close-knit family alongside her two siblings. Her sharp mind and love of numbers led her to earn a Master’s Degree in accounting — an achievement she held with pride throughout her life.
Peg eventually settled in Rockaway, New Jersey, where her husband and she owned Valley Appliance, a Denville staple for over 20 years. Working on Long Island, she met the love of her life, Daniel Sperry. Peg often shared, “He took my hand, and we fell in love”—a testament to the deep, enduring bond they shared over the decades. Together, they built a life rooted in love, mutual respect, and a shared appreciation for the arts. The couple were avid collectors, curating a rich and varied art collection that filled their home and hearts. Peg was especially proud of her extensive collection of Westmoreland Glass, a passion that reflected her eye for beauty and detail.
Professionally, Peg dedicated over 28 years to Suburban Propane, where she worked as a trusted and meticulous accountant. Her loyalty and work ethic earned the admiration of her colleagues, many of whom became lifelong friends.
Outside of work, Peg was deeply committed to her friendships. For over 40 years, she gathered regularly with the same cherished group of friends for games of Pinochle and laughter-filled evenings. Her friendships were a cornerstone of her happiness and a reflection of her generous, joyful spirit.
An enthusiastic NASCAR fan, Peg rarely missed a stock car race. She delighted in the thrill of the sport and found excitement in following her favorite drivers. Her quieter joys included spending time with her beloved cats, who brought her comfort and companionship throughout the years.
Above all else, Peg's heart belonged to her family. She was a steady presence, a source of unwavering support, and a woman who lived her life with grace, kindness, and a warm, welcoming heart.
Peg is survived by her brother, William “Billy” Ball (Mary), her nieces and nephews, Arthur Worden (Tammy), Jane Murphy, James Halpin, Jr. (Heather), Angelique Hughes (Michael), William Arthur Ball (Precious), her sister-in-law, Lorraine Asman (Bill), as well as many nieces and nephews as well as grand nephews and nieces along with friends who will miss her dearly. She will be remembered for her wit, her wisdom, and the immense love she gave so freely. She now joins her sister, who passed before her, in Heaven; Elizabeth Seabright and her husband, George, along with her parents, Arthur and Dorothy Ball.
Hours of public visitation for Peg will be held from 5 to 8 on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Norman Dean Home for Services. A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 5 at 10:30 AM at Marcella Union Cemetery of Rockaway. Immediately following the graveside service will be a luncheon at the Hibernia Diner in Rockaway.
Please join us to celebrate the life of this wonderful woman, and please leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Peg’s light shine!
