Peggy Lee Younkins

Peggy Lee Lauten Younkins, age 86, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026, with her devoted husband, Lester, by her side. She was born in Madison, North Carolina, the daughter of the late John Lee Lauten and Quincey Ledbetter Lauten. Peggy was a woman of grace, intelligence, and deep love for her family. A dedicated student, she was the Valedictorian of her Madison-Mayodan High School class and graduated from Wake Forest University (with high honors). On January 13, 1962, she married the love of her life, Lester Allen Younkins. Their marriage, spanning 64 years, was a true partnership built on devotion and the joy of raising their three sons. She dedicated ten years of her professional life to Norfolk General Hospital, where she served as a Med Tech in Pathology. Beyond her career, Peggy was deeply involved in her community. She was a proud, long-time member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, where she famously led the annual pecan sales drive as a top fundraiser and formed cherished, lifelong friendships. She also looked forward to her regular card club gatherings at Gianna’s in Harborview. She and Les were avid Lady Monarch women’s basketball fans, holding season tickets as far back as the Marianne Stanley tenure. In addition, volunteered on various committees as a long-time Green Acres Presbyterian parishioner until she was no longer able. Peggy was a constant presence in her sons’ lives, serving as an enthusiastic supporter of Churchland Little League and the Band Parents Auxiliary. She was known for her remarkable memory—never forgetting a name or a face—and for her innate ability to make everyone she met feel seen and valued. Peggy was predeceased by her parents and her beloved great-granddaughter, Layne Marie Younkins. She is survived by her husband, Lester Allen Younkins; her three sons, David (Dawn), Randy, and Van; four grandsons, Nicholas, Jeffrey (Ashlyn), Austin (Mackenzie), and Landon; and two great-grandchildren, Jace and Jordan, who brought her immense joy. The family will receive visitors at Loving Funeral Home Churchland Chapel 3225 Academy Avenue. Portsmouth, VA 23703 on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 5:00 – 6:30 PM. A funeral service will be held at Green Acres Presbyterian Church 3135 Hanley Avenue. Portsmouth, VA 23703 on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Peggy’s memory to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or the Green Acres Presbyterian General Fund.