Peggy M. Smethie

Peggy Ann Moore Smethie, 92, passed away on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Augusta Health Hospice of the Shenandoah House in Fishersville.

Peggy was born March 13, 1933, in Staunton, to the late Ernest Franklin and Lydia Viola Wright Moore.

Peggy was a skilled assistant and office manager for the dental office of Drs. Fred and Bob Markley for over two decades.

She was also a talented musician who served as an organist for many years in area churches. Music was a most important part of her life, and she greatly enjoyed singing with the Staunton Choral Society and being a member of the Thursday Morning Music Club. As a dedicated and giving person, she volunteered for decades at the King’s Daughters’ / Augusta Health Thrift Shop in downtown Staunton. Peggy's service to the community was also shown over thirty years as a devoted member of the Staunton Rotary Club. "Service above Self" was more than a slogan to her.

She is survived by her husband, Halvor Gunerius Aaslestad; her sisters, Nancy Moore Link and Carole Moore Blankenship and her husband, Wayne; her nieces, Julie Blankenship, Teresa Harris, and Debbie Sheffer; as well as her nephew, Dr. Gary Link.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her late husband, Robert Welford Smethie.

A memorial service will be held in Peggy's honor at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Trinity Episcopal Church in Staunton with The Reverend William “A. J.” Heinie officiating.

A private inurnment will be held at a later date at the Lebanon Church of the Brethren Cemetery in Mount Sidney.

In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial contributions may be made to Augusta Health Hospice of the Shenandoah (c/o Augusta Health Foundation, P.O. Box 1000, Fishersville, VA 22939).