Margaret "Peg" G. Callas

Callas, Margaret H. "Peg" nee Gowdy, age 88 of Elmira, NY, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2017. Peg was born in Elmira to the late Alberta and Ivan Gowdy on September 27, 1928.In addition to her parents, Peg was predeceased by her brother, Robert Gowdy. She is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, James P. Callas; son, Peter J. Callas of St. Cloud, FL; daughters and sons-in-law, Penelope and David Allington of Pine City, NY, Catharine Callas and Patrick Filliben of Elmira, NY, and Georgia and Thomas Rennie of Pine City, NY; grandchildren, Andrea and Mark Badurak, Jerid and Kelly Allington, Carolyn Rennie and Kevin Falkenberg, Colleen Rennie; great grandchildren, Ava, Kaitlin, and Luna. Peg is also survived by sisters-in-law, Stella Bertholf and Marian Gowdy, as well as several nieces and nephews, and many who called her “Mom” and “Grandma Peg” throughout the years. Peg attended Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA and following her youngest child’s entering school began a long and fulfilling career with the Elmira City School District in Community Schools, then transferring and retiring from the STC BOCES Labor Relations Department. She also co-founded and served for many years as Director of The Gold Card Association, working tireless hours on programs and newsletters for the senior citizens of Chemung County. During the ’72 Flood, Peg served as the Disaster Coordinator for the Southside of Elmira, serving her community first despite the fact that her own home and family were also affected. Peg was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church, serving on various committees and Vestry positions throughout the years. She was also a member of Elmira’s Business and Professional Women’s organization, and Elmira’s Zonta International Club, serving in various positions of leadership in both organizations, including President, along with serving as chair of the EZC Board until her passing, and volunteering with the American Cancer Society.Those who knew Peg recognize the many countless hours she gave to the community, and Elmira is a better place for her service. Family and friends are invited to call at Trinity Episcopal Church, 304 N Main St, Elmira, NY in the parish hall Trinity Room for calling hours on Saturday, April 29, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM.There will be a short service by her fellow Zontians at the start of calling hours, followed by the funeral service in the sanctuary. Rev. Mary Frances Curns will officiate.Interment will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Peg’s honor to Trinity Episcopal Church, 304 N. Main St., Elmira, NY 14901 or to the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA, 2435 Route 352, Elmira, NY14903. Peg’s tribute wall may be signed at www.olthof.com.