Margaret Ann "Peggy" Oates

Margaret Ann Oates (McMahon), better known as Peggy, departed her loving family on September 12, 2023. Peggy passed peacefully, surrounded by family at the Anne Arundel Medical Center.

Peggy was born on July 17, 1949 in Baltimore Maryland to Harry and Norma McMahon. Peggy was one of 6, the eldest daughter. She is preceded in death by her parents Norma and Harry as well as two sisters Kathy and Patty. Peggy is survived by siblings Harry Jr., Tommy, and Jean Marie. A multigenerational family which included John Aloysius McMahon (Grandpop) who everyone knew favored Peggy was central to her childhood memories. An Irish Catholic family full of life, Peggy’s childhood included joyful music made by the “Rhythm Ramblers”, dancing and singing, annual beach trips to Wildwood, NJ, card games, and making memories with her beloved siblings. She was a great storyteller and often recounted fond memories of growing up in Baltimore.

The McMahon family moved from Baltimore to Bowie in 1962. Peggy was among the first graduating class of Bowie High School and later attended St. Mary’s College on a full scholarship. A bit of a trailblazer and a definite go-getter, Peggy worked at Sherwin Williams as the assistant manager in her early twenties. She met Charles (Skip) Oates through her brother Harry in 1973. Only a year or so later the couple eloped on their lunch break at the Prince Georges County courthouse. Peggy is survived by her loving husband Skip. A beloved mother of three daughters, she is also survived by Erin Dillon (Marty Dillon), Carrie Bence (Brad Bence), and Lindsay Tenaglio (Nick Tenaglio). Peggy was a dedicated grandmother and was very intentional in making meaningful memories with each of her six precious grandchildren: Samantha, Shelby, Finn, Lily, Louise, and June.

Peggy has been an active member of CCPC since 1982. She worked as youth leader for several years and initiated the church’s involvement in Habitat for Humanity. Active in the church’s PWOC she led and participated in numerous women’s retreats. She touched many lives in her church community and made numerous lifelong friends. Peggy bounced back and forth between being a stay-at-home mom and working at the Adams Burch Company (20 years).

Peggy made sure she always won any game of mini golf and loved a good game of cards or a scrabble battle. She loved to read and was a very thoughtful card giver. She enjoyed traveling with Skip whether it be a cruise to Bermuda, a day trip to Lancaster, PA or a beach trip to Wildwood, NJ.

Peggy’s endless love for her family, her amazing sense of humor, her faith, and her inspiring positivity carried her through until the end. She will be terribly missed by all who knew her.

Memorial Gathering

Friday September 22, 2023 

6:00pm-8:00pm

Beall Funeral Home 
6512 Crain Hwy
Bowie, MD 

Celebration of Life

Saturday September 23, 2023

10:00 am with reception to follow

3120 Belair Drive

Bowie, MD 20715

Peggy’s passion was evident in her commitment to her church mission and family.  If you would like to make a memorial donation in Peggy memory to Christian Community Presbyterian Church please visit ccpc.bowiemd.org