Peggy Evelyn (Ashton) Stratton, age 92, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, at Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital following a period of declining health.

Born on September 24, 1933, in Delaware, Ohio, Peggy was the daughter of the late John Harbison Ashton and Evelyn Louise (Pool) Ashton.

Peggy was a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree. During her youth and college years, she was an accomplished clarinet player, a passion that reflected her lifelong appreciation for music and the arts.

After her first marriage ended, Peggy demonstrated resilience and determination by returning to school to study computer skills. She went on to work for Lauren Manufacturing in New Philadelphia, building a successful and fulfilling career.

Peggy lived an active and vibrant life. She enjoyed gardening, playing tennis, biking, sewing, and traveling. She was also a member of a walking club, where she formed many lasting friendships.

Peggy, and her husband, John E. Stratton, were very generous members of our community providing scholarship support and educational opportunities to area students at New Philadelphia High School, Buckeye Career Center and Kent State Tuscarawas.

She is survived by her six children: Harry Humphries, Kim (Sarah) Humphries, Michael Humphries, Susan (David) Vaglia, Douglas Humphries, and Robert (Paula) Humphries; grandchildren, Brittany Lea (Phil) Poole, Jillian Lee (Stephen) LoPresti, Sarah Ashton (Heather) Molitor, Haleigh Kay (Adam) Hixon, Johnathan Paul (Lauren) Humphries, Paisley Kay (Kip) Steiner, and Hope Christiana (fiancé, Simon Marchetti) Humphries; 16 great-grandchildren; her sister, Nancy Kay (Sanford) Whitman; two nieces and one nephew. She also leaves behind her husband of 27 years, John E. Stratton, and his children, Jim (Sally) Stratton and Sara Stratton.

Peggy was preceded in death by her first husband, Harry Humphries, with whom she shared her children; her grandson, Christian Warren Molitor; her daughter-in-law, Lesli Humphries; and her sister, Sue Brown.

A private service will be held by the family. Burial will be held in Woodlawn Cemetery in Lima, Ohio, alongside her parents.

Memorial contributions may be directed to The Full Life Center, Inc. 349 E. High Ave., New Philadelphia, OH 44663.