Margaret Anne Spitz

Margaret “Peggy” Anne Hundley Spitz, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, Occupational Therapist, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2026, surrounded by her loving daughter and son.

Peggy was born on September 6, 1948, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to Bevily and Virginia (Bunker) Hundley. She grew up in Brentwood, Missouri, where she graduated from Brentwood High School with the Class of 1966. She went on to attend the University of Kansas, earning her bachelor’s degree in Occupational Therapy in 1970.

Peggy’s connection to the University of Kansas remained an important part of her life long after graduation. In recognition of her professional accomplishments and contributions to her field, she was honored as the 2003 University of Kansas Allied Health Alumna of the Year. Her Jayhawk pride extended well beyond her professional life. An avid Kansas Jayhawks fan, Peggy held season tickets for many years and loved cheering on her beloved Jayhawks in Allen Fieldhouse. Her love for KU and its basketball traditions remained a cherished part of who she was.

Peggy also had a love for game shows and enjoyed the excitement of being a contestant. Her quick thinking and competitive spirit brought her some memorable television moments over the years. In 1975, she appeared on The $10,000 Pyramid, winning the Pyramid alongside celebrity guest Leonard Nimoy. In 1987, she made it all the way to the bonus round and solving the puzzle on Wheel of Fortune , and in the late 1970s, she won consolation prizes on Shoot for the Stars. Whether watching from home or competing under the studio lights, Peggy enjoyed the fun, challenge, and excitement of game shows. These were just a few of the many stories and adventures that made her life so unique.

On Halloween in 1970, Peggy married the love of her life, Charles “Charlie” Spitz. In 1972, they moved to New Jersey, where they built their life together, raised their family, and created countless cherished memories over more than five decades of marriage.

Peggy dedicated much of her professional life to helping children and families through her work as an occupational therapist. Throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and into the early 2000s, she served children in Monmouth County through United Cerebral Palsy of Long Branch, Ocean Township Public Schools, Neptune Public Schools, and Asbury Park Public Schools. Working in early childhood and elementary programs, Peggy brought her knowledge, patience, creativity, and compassion to countless young learners. She also spent many years working with Visiting Nurses, traveling to patients’ homes to provide occupational therapy and support to individuals where they needed it most.

Peggy was a creative spirit: she loved baking, weaving, and crafting. Her artistic talents earned her numerous blue ribbons at the Monmouth County Fair over the years. She found joy in creating things with her hands and sharing what she made with others.

Peggy also became an accomplished author, writing more than six occupational therapy books for therapists and teachers to use in their work with children in the classroom. She was also a guest speaker at national occupational therapy and local OT conventions, sharing her knowledge and expertise in working with young children. Her grandchildren often found themselves featured in the pages of her books, making her professional accomplishments even more personal and creating a special way to preserve memories of them while sharing her knowledge with others. One of her books was co-authored with her daughter, Carla, creating a meaningful professional collaboration and a special memory they shared. Peggy also operated her own online occupational therapy store for a time, bringing her ideas and resources to an even wider audience.

Peggy and Charlie shared a love of travel and adventure. Over the years, they made homes in Hawaii, California, and South Carolina, embracing opportunities to explore new places and experience different cultures. They enjoyed learning about local history, discovering new crafts, and sampling regional foods. Their travels reflected Peggy’s curiosity about the world and her appreciation for the people, traditions, friendships, and experiences that made each place special.

Retirement did not mean slowing down for Peggy. She continued sharing her time and enthusiasm through volunteer work at the San Diego Safari Park and Jenkinson’s Aquarium. Whether exploring a new interest, helping others, or creating something beautiful, Peggy approached life with a spirit of curiosity and generosity.

Above all, Peggy loved bringing people together. She delighted in hosting gatherings, planning parties, and making holidays special for the people she loved. Her kitchen was often the heart of these celebrations, filled with the aromas of her cooking and baking and the anticipation of time spent together. She generously shared her culinary talents, hospitality, and love with her church family and friends throughout the years. For Peggy, these gatherings were about more than food or festivities; they were opportunities to build connections, celebrate traditions, and create memories that would last a lifetime.

Peggy was a devoted grandmother to her four grandchildren, Donovan, Ryanne, Logan, and Hailey, who brought her tremendous joy and pride. She treasured her family and the special relationships she built across generations. Whether featuring her grandchildren in her books, preparing a favorite meal, celebrating a holiday, cheering on the Jayhawks, or sharing stories of her game show adventures, Peggy found countless ways to share her passions and her love with those closest to her. Her creativity, warmth, and enthusiasm made ordinary moments special.

Peggy will also be remembered for her dedication to helping others, her love of learning, her adventurous spirit, her competitive streak, and the generosity she brought to every gathering. Her beloved dog, Windy, was a cherished companion.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents, Bevily and Virginia Hundley.

She is survived by her loving husband of more than 55 years, Charles “Charlie” Spitz; her daughter, Carla Fisher; her son, Andrew Spitz; her four beloved grandchildren, Donovan, Ryanne, Logan, and Hailey; her sister, Barbara; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog, Windy.

Peggy leaves behind a legacy of compassion, creativity, service, and love. Through the children she helped, the families she supported, the books she authored, the crafts she created, the adventures she embraced, and the countless meals and celebrations she shared, she made a lasting difference in the lives of others. Her professional achievements, her pride in the University of Kansas, her lifelong love of the Jayhawks, and even her memorable moments on national game shows were all important parts of her story. But her greatest legacy will always be the family and friendships she nurtured.

Above all, Peggy leaves behind a family enriched by her love and a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring comfort and joy. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love her.

Arrangements are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com