Peggy Jean VanLandingham
It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Peggy Jean VanLandingham, 88, of Hazlehurst, who passed peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior with her family by her side, on June 8, 2026.
Born on July 5, 1937, to Joseph V. Gillis Sr. and Alma Lee Stegall in Hazlehurst, she lived a rich and full life marked by love, kindness, faith, and devotion to her family and community. She touched the lives of many through her generosity, strength, and unwavering commitment to those she loved.
Jean was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Emmitt Lamar VanLandingham, with whom she shared 54 cherished years of marriage.
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever treasure her memory, including her three sons, Philip VanLandingham (Mary), Matthew VanLandingham (Kathy), and Timothy VanLandingham (Lynn); six cherished grandchildren, Pamela Rackley (John), Emily Smith (Austin), Jonathan VanLandingham (Mike), Thomas VanLandingham (Ana), Katie Riddell (Ben), and Kamryn Lampton (Allen); and 11 adored great-grandchildren, Eliza Gray and Knox Rackley, Adelyn and Ezra Smith, Callum and Ellie VanLandingham, Ryder, Ellie Blake, Avery Jean, and Emmitt Riddell, and Eli Lampton. She is also survived by numerous extended family members, friends, and loved ones whose lives were enriched by knowing her.
Those who knew Jean will remember her for her passionate heart, indomitable spirit, and the vast love, ready opinions, and delicious food she shared so freely. Her over 40 years at Copiah Bank allowed her infectious energy to extend across the county and impact numerous lives. Her legacy, rich with mirth and humor, lives on in the values she instilled in her family and in the countless memories she created with those around her.
She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, mother-in-law, aunt, grandmother (to any and all who needed), “LuLu,” “MawMaw,” great-grandmother, and friend.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Alma Gillis; her brothers, Hubert and Joseph “Pete” Gillis; and her sister, Peggy Spruill.
A service to celebrate her life will be held at 11 a.m. on June 13, with visitation starting at 10, at First Baptist Church of Hazlehurst. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and honor of a life well lived. In lieu of sending flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society or First Baptist Church of Hazlehurst.
Though she will be deeply missed, the love and memories Jean leaves behind will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Allen Lampton, Ben Riddell, John Rackley, Austin Smith, and Miguel Valadez VanLandingham.
