Peggy Doughty (née Spillman)
February 13, 1959 – May 9, 2025
With deep sorrow and loving remembrance, we announce the tragic passing of Peggy Doughty on May 9, 2025, at the age of 66.
Born on February 13, 1959, Peggy spent most of her life in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, where she became a beloved and vibrant part of the community. She shared a home in Los Angeles, California, with her husband, Greg Doughty, bringing love and connection to both cities throughout their years together.
Peggy was a woman of vision, integrity, and heart. For 25 years, she was the proud owner of Blue Heron Design, a gem in downtown Lee’s Summit. Her store, known for its carefully curated selection of globally and locally sourced fair trade products — from jewelry and art to “neat little stuff” — was more than a business, it was a reflection of her. Peggy was passionate about supporting women-owned businesses and championed conscious consumerism long before it became widely talked about. Through Blue Heron Design, she built a loyal and loving customer base, making lifelong friends along the way.
Her professional and personal passions were deeply intertwined. Peggy loved to travel — not just for the sake of seeing the world, but to connect with people, discover meaningful goods, and share their stories through her shop. Her journeys took her to Thailand, India, Turkey, and across the United States, including a recent trip to Hawaii, always in search of the most beautiful and interesting things to bring home for her customers.
At the heart of everything Peggy did was her family. She is survived by her husband, Greg, as well as her children: Casey Blystone, Jolie Everett (and husband Mark Everett), and Liam Brown (and wife Emily Perkins). She was a devoted and joyful grandmother to Francis, Edward, and Albert Everett, whom she adored beyond words.
Peggy is also survived by her mother, Elizabeth Parrini, and stepmother, Diana Spillman; her siblings John Spillman Jr., Kenny Spillman, and Chris Barochiere. She was preceded in death by her brother, Jeffrey Cantrell, and her father, John Spillman, whose memory remained a steady presence in her life.
Peggy was a person of rare gentleness, strong convictions, and unshakable kindness. Her ability to connect deeply with others, to listen without judgment, and to lead with compassion made her a light in the lives of all who knew her. Whether she was helping a customer find the perfect gift, mentoring entrepreneurs, or sharing a joyful moment with her grandsons, she brought beauty and mindfulness into every day.
A memorial service to celebrate Peggy’s remarkable life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Peggy’s honor to a cause reflecting her lifelong commitment to ethical trade, women’s empowerment, or community development.
Peggy Doughty leaves behind a legacy of love, generosity and purpose. She will be missed beyond measure — in the community she helped build, the family she loved, and the world she worked to make just a little more beautiful.
