Anna C. "Peg" Brian

As family and friends can surely attest, Anna C. “Peg” Brian truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and she always had a word to say. Nothing brought Peg greater joy than surrounding herself with her loved ones. She was a shining example of kindness and generosity, and her focus in life was building deep and personal relationships with those around her. Deeply loved, Peg will be forever missed by those who knew her best.

The early 1930s are remembered as a time of great turmoil and struggle for the United States. During these dark years, however, there was a ray of light for Raymond Shook and Keturah McKeown of Youngstown, Ohio, as they eagerly anticipated the arrival of their baby. On March 18, 1930, their wait was over, and they welcomed their daughter, Peg, into the world.

Growing up, Peg was a typical young girl of her generation in many ways. She was raised in the family home in Youngstown alongside her two brothers, Calvin and James “Jimmy.” It was her brother Jimmy who nicknamed her Peg at a young age and it stuck! Early on, Peg had a passion for ice skating and had dreams of becoming a figure skater. After graduating from The Rayen High School, she attended Youngstown State University, where she was a member of a sorority and built many lifelong friendships. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree.

New and exciting changes were on the horizon for Peg as she met the man who would quickly become the love of her life. His name was Walter Brian. The two first met while attending Youngstown State University where there was an instant spark between them. Peg often helped Walter with his homework. She even wrote a paper for him once. He ended up receiving a better grade on his paper than she got on her own! Over time, their relationship continued to blossom, and it didn’t take too long to realize they were made for each other. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Peg and Walter were married on August 9, 1952 in the presence of family and friends, ready to step into their future as husband and wife.

All who knew Peg can certainly agree that, of all the things she loved in life, she treasured her family above all else. Together, she and Walter welcomed their son, Michael, into their hearts and home. Peg truly thrived in her role as a mother, and she left her job working as a secretary for U.S. Steel Corporation to care for her home and her family. Later in life, she was overjoyed to become a grandmother to Matthew and Christian. Peg adored her grandchildren and doted on them whenever she could, and she enjoyed taking them swimming with her. When they were learning to drive, she was nervous to ride in the car with them, even though they turned out to be excellent drivers. The boys learned to exploit her nervousness and add a little humor to the ride. Peg always considered herself blessed to watch her family grow to include so many loved ones.

Never one to sit still for long, Peg pursued many hobbies to stay busy in her free time. She loved being active, and she played tennis and bowled for many years. Swimming was one of Peg’s greatest passions. She and Walter were long-standing members of the Boardman Tennis and Swim Club, and she went swimming often during the summer, even in her retirement years. Peg was an avid fan of baseball, proudly cheering for her Cleveland Indians. She was well known for calling the team’s front office on occasion to give them a piece of her mind when they were doing something she felt was wrong. She also enjoyed attending Youngstown State University football and basketball games. She was also thrilled to see Frank Sinatra perform, a true highlight of her life. Peg was never short on conversation. No matter the topic, from sports to politics, current events, or family matters, Peg always had something to share.

And then, of course, there’s shopping. Whether at a farmers market for fresh peaches, candied applies at the Canfield Fair, or making a trip to Talbot’s, shopping always made her smile. Perhaps the only thing better was spending time with family, and her dogs, Tramp, Buffy, and Shannon.

One of Peg’s favorite pastimes was simply being around friends. She grew to be especially close with Kim Velk, Jesse and Cathy McClain, Carol Labonte, and Julie Johnson, along with many others. They often checked in on her, shared Thanksgiving with her, or just stopped by to share friendly conversation. Even into her nineties, Peg enjoyed getting out and about. She loved going out for dinner, shopping, and socializing with family and friends.

When reflecting on the life of Peg Brian, it is easy to see both her unwavering strength and her unconditional love for her family. She was well known for her witty sense of humor and her serving spirit. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Peg was a friend to many and beloved by all. She was always willing to go above and beyond to help others, and her overflowing heart allowed her to touch the lives of those around her. Though she will be dearly missed, Peg leaves behind a priceless legacy that her loved ones will be proud to carry on in her footsteps.

Anna C. “Peg” Brian, age 94, died on March 25, 2024 in Kalamazoo, MI. She is preceded in death by her husband, Walter, and two brothers, Calvin and James. Surviving are her son, Michael (Patrice) Brian; and grandsons, Matthew and Christian. Visit Anna’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories, photos, and sign her guestbook. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo 269-375-2900.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers of Friendship Village Health Center, Rehab, and Woodside Assisted Living as well as Centrica Care Navigators for their love and unwavering care and support.