Peggy Ann Ratz, 78, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, with her family by her side. She was the loving wife of Charles P. Ratz. Together, they shared 51 years of steadfast marriage.
Peggy was born on October 9, 1947, in Decatur, Indiana, to Edward and Sadie Gerber.
She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in elementary education from Ball State University. She began her teaching career as a first-grade teacher at Alquina Elementary School before choosing to stay home to raise her children. She later returned to the classroom at Mount Carmel School, where she taught for 18 years until her retirement.
Peggy was a member and past president of Tri Kappa and belonged to the Franklin County Quilt Batts, the Brookville Women’s Club, the Whitcomb United Methodist Women, and Whitcomb United Methodist Church.
She will be remembered for her passion for education, philanthropy, and her role as a mentor to so many. A true servant leader, Peggy inspired others with her creativity and boundless energy. Through quilting, she brought joy to friends, family, and the charities she supported. Her generous heart, grace, and compassion will be deeply missed by all who loved her.
Peggy is survived by her husband, Charles; her children, Charles (Heather) Ratz of Wilmington, North Carolina, and Beth (Marty) Adkins of Montgomery, Ohio; her grandchildren, Marty and Cooper Adkins; her brothers, Jerry Gerber of Decatur, Indiana, and Phillip Gerber of Meridian, Mississippi; her sister, Rose Kipfer of Bluffton, Indiana; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Danny Gerber, Ron Gerber, and Steven Gerber.
Family & friends may visit from 4 till 7 P.M. on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home, 1025 Franklin Ave., Brookville.
Rev. Steve Rundel will officiate the Funeral Service at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, March 6, 2026 at Brookville United Methodist Church, 150 East 8TH Street, Brookville; burial will then follow in Maple Grove Cemetery. There will be visitation at Brookville United Methodist Church from 10:00 A.M. until the time of the service on Friday, March 6.
To honor her joyful spirit, the family invites you to wear vibrant colors.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Safe Passage, Imagination Library Franklin County, Tri Kappa Memorial Fund or the Whitcomb United Methodist Church.
The staff of Phillips & Meyers Funeral Home are honored to serve the Ratz family, to sign the online guest book or send personal condolences please visit www.phillipsandmeyers.com