Margaret McElroy Cavanagh, known to all as Peggy, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, at the age of 87 surrounded by her family. She was predeceased by her father, Patrick McElroy, mother, Margaret McElroy, and brother, Eugene McElroy. A selfless woman with a sharp mind and a heart full of grace, Peggy’s life was a quiet masterpiece of love, devotion, and enduring strength.
Margaret McElroy Cavanagh Credit: https://hoytfuneralhome.com/tribute/details/1914/Margaret-Cavanagh/obituary.html#tribute-start
Born on April 7, 1938, in New York City, to Irish immigrants Patrick McElroy and Margaret Delaney, Peggy was raised in Woodside, Queens alongside her brothers Joseph, Patrick, and Eugene. From her earliest days at St. Sebastian’s School, Peggy’s kind heart and even temperament stood out. She was the one who stayed after class to help struggling classmates, already living by the principle that family—and community—comes first.
Peggy went on to attend Mary Louis Academy in Jamaica, Queens, where her leadership shone as class president. She later followed her passion for healing into the field of nursing, graduating from St. Clare’s School of Nursing in Manhattan. There, she again served as president of her class and received the Mother Mary Alice Award at graduation in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, recognizing her as the ideal student nurse. Whether in the emergency room or as a nurse in the Darien school system, Peggy was admired for her calm, compassionate presence.
In June 1960, Peggy married her childhood friend and soulmate, Thomas Gary Cavanagh (Gary), at St. Sebastian’s Church in Woodside. Over the course of their 65-year marriage, they built a life defined by deep faith, shared laughter, a love of Irish music and a profound commitment to their growing family. Together, they raised five children—Mary, Gary, Eileen, Jeanne, and Elizabeth—across homes in Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. No matter where life took them, Peggy made every house a home.
A devout Catholic, Peggy’s faith was the foundation of her life. She was a best friend to her children, the best listener in every conversation, and the loving anchor of her family. She had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel seen and heard. Her home was filled with warmth, plenty of food, and sounds of laughter shared around the table.
Peggy was also a lifelong athlete—an excellent tennis and paddle player whose graceful backhand and sportsmanship were admired by all. Off the court, she was an avid reader, always learning, and always ready to recommend a good book. Peggy loved to laugh with her friends and family- especially with her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy.
Peggy is survived by her beloved husband, Gary, and her five children: Mary Kroll (Jeff) of Wilton, CT; Gary Cavanagh of Simsbury, CT; Eileen Cavanagh (Chris Brown) of Westbrook, CT; Jeanne Cavanagh Cervini of New Canaan, CT; and Liz Kaliski (Drew) of Wilton, CT. She is also lovingly remembered by her eight grandchildren: Madeline Kroll Manning (Andy), Colin Kroll, Emma and Olivia Cavanagh, Caroline Cervini, and Grady, Sean, and Kelly Kaliski.
Peggy’s legacy is one of unwavering love, quiet leadership, and an unshakable sense of what matters most. She was the heart of her family—steadfast, strong, and full of grace. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 4-7 PM at Hoyt Funeral Home 199 Main Street, New Canaan, CT 06840. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 11 am at Saint Aloysius Catholic Church 21 Cherry St, New Canaan, CT 06840.
For live streaming please click the link https://boxcast.tv/view/funeral-mass-for-margaret-mary-cavanagh-bvk28npdfcbnzxioepln
[This obituary appeared on the Hoyt Funeral Home website.]