Peggy Dolan, a cherished soul from Tool, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2026, just shy of her 95th birthday. In the loving arms of two family members, she passed from this world knowing she was loved dearly as she loved others.
Born on April 30, 1931 to George Brecht and Gladis (Holt) Brecht in Snow Hill, Missouri, Peggy was married to the late Benny Gene Dolan who passed in 1994. She lived a life filled with love, resilience, and a deep commitment to her family and friends.
Peggy was a devoted wife and mother, and considered her family as her greatest treasure. She thrived on their company, nurturing each relationship with warmth and kindness. Throughout her life, she faced various hardships, but her unwavering spirit and positive attitude were constant sources of inspiration to those around her. Peggy was known for her generous heart; her zest for life was reflected in everything she did. Her passion for gardening cultivated not only flowers from the ground but also love and laughter in all those around her.
Peggy’s delightful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. This was a spirit that burnt bright thru the passing of all three sons and her husband; a spirit that refused to be extinguished but taught her the invaluable gift of how to grieve. Giving generously of herself to those close enabled her to turn death into something that would live on. She shared from the passions of her life whether it be cooking, plants, her memories, her little figurines or knickknacks, or her flowers that adorned her garden and home. She would talk about all of it if you cared to set a spell and listen, and for years before she left, she would give things away to those close to her. Some of the things were bigger but the most precious were small that had special meaning to either her or the person receiving it. “When you look at this, remember me” she would say. Toward the end of her life, she would save little plastic cups for starting a sprig of her favorite flower. She would then give it to a special person that had shared kindness.
She was a precious gift that will be missed by many.
Peggy is survived by her nephew, Dorwin Hilsenbeck of Virginia City, Montana; niece, Janice Curry of Concord, California; nephew, John Hilsenbeck and wife, Marguerite of Benicia, California, and nephew George Brecht Kansas City, Missouri; niece, Linda Glass and husband, Randy of Idaho; as well as many great-nephews and nieces, other extended family members and friends.
She was preceded in death by husband, Benny Dolan; three sons, Kenny Michael Dolan, Patrick Lee Dolan, and Timothy Dolan; parents, George and Gladis Brecht; sister, Anna Loretta Hilsenbeck and brother, William Brecht.
Peggy will be inurned during a committal ceremony at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.