Maher, Jean (Peggy)

Jean (Peggy) Maher, 73, of Las Vegas, Nev., formerly of Van Horne and Cedar Rapids, passed away Friday, Feb. 25 2011, in her home following a long illness.

Peggy was born Jan. 8, 1938, in Iowa City, the daughter of Edwin and Regina (Donahue) Maher of Van Horne, Iowa. Peggy graduated from Van Horne Consolidated High School in 1956. She worked at Coca Cola in Cedar Rapids from 1956-1996. After retirement she helped in the kitchen at Trinity Lutheran School for five years.

Peggy found joy in the simple things of life. She always had a smile on her face and loved to laugh, especially with her sister. It's hard to think of one without thinking of the other. Around the house she was always whistling a happy tune. Her concern was always for others, and not herself.

Peg enjoyed taking vacations throughout the years, traveling all around the country with her family. She loved watching Iowa Hawkeye football and basketball games. After moving to Las Vegas, one of her favorite activities was attending UNLV basketball games and cheering for the Running Rebels. She also delighted in Dave and Kathy's two dogs, Zeke and Jackpot. They gave her much enjoyment and love.

Her family includes brother-in-law, Donald Bryant of Cedar Rapids; niece, Kathy (KB) Sisco, and Kathy's husband, David, of Las Vegas, Nev.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Lydelle Bryant; niece, Mary; and nephew, Anthony Bryant.

A Funeral Mass will be held later this spring at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids. Visitation and inurnment also will be held later this spring in Keystone.

Phillips Funeral Homes in Keystone is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at