Shirley Hodge Peeler, daughter of the late John Manning Hodge and the late Marie Odom Hodge, passed away just two days shy of her 89th birthday.  She is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Ralph James Peeler, III and his wife, Allyson of Hoover, Alabama, and John Thomas Peeler and his wife, Susan of Raleigh.  She also is survived by four grandchildren Shelby, James, Kendall, and Manning Peeler.  She was predeceased by her husband of 41 years, Dr. Ralph James Peeler, Jr,  brothers Joe, Monroe, and Nick, and sisters Irene and Eloise.  Shirley was very proud to have been born and raised in Raleigh.

She valued education and the pursuit of knowledge. She graduated from Needham Broughton High School  in 1953 and attended Meredith College and NC State University later in life.  She enjoyed studying World War II, in which two of her brothers served.  Her love of reading ranged from authors Geoffrey Chaucer to Reynolds Price to Pat Conroy.  She would readily converse in the fine points of those readings and was always up to date on the news and current events of the day.

Shirley was also deeply involved in her sons' school experiences, the Raleigh Ostomy Society, where she served as president, and West Raleigh Presbyterian Church, where she was a member for 68 years and served as a Deacon.  She was always quick to defend the underdog, and never strayed from her core values.

She enjoyed her family and friends and loved hearty conversation, knitting, quilting, playing bridge and antiquing.  She was both skilled and meticulous. Shirley thrived as a compassionate, caring, curious, dedicated, woman who was much loved.  Her presence has left an indelible mark on her family and friends.

A funeral service will be held on November 11, 2023 at Montlawn Memorial Park Chapel, 2911 S. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC.

In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to Transitions Lifecare, 250 Hospice Way, Raleigh, NC 27607 or to the charity of your choice.