Peggy P. Zant

Peggy P. Zant passed away September 5, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida surrounded by her family. Mrs. Zant was born September 12, 1936, in Rock Hill, South Carolina to James Summers Perkins and Lelia Lesslie Perkins. She was the stepdaughter of Clayton E. Bradshaw of Jennings, Florida. She graduated from Jennings High School and Valdosta State University, where she was a member of the Fins and Flippers synchronized swim team. Peggy held a Florida teaching certificate for 50 years, beginning her career in St. Lucie County before moving to Alachua County in 1968; teaching at Prairie View and J.J. Finley (Parker) elementary schools. She was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, the Order of the Easter Star, and Gainesville Jr. Woman’s Club.

Peggy enjoyed spending time with her family, traveling throughout the 50 states, Canada, and Mexico, going to the family farm, and watching Gator sports. She loved her Gator sports, at one time being a member of the Gainesville Goal Liners Club, the Gator Tip-Off Club, and the Gator Dug Out Club. She was also recognized by Gator Boosters for being a 50-year Booster.

Mrs. Zant was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, S. Douglas Zant, her brother James Summers Perkins III, and sister-in-law Martha Baugh Perkins. She is survived by her two daughters, Susan Zant (Destin, FL and Dr. Lloyd Johnson, Buies Creek, NC) and Allyson Zant (Gainesville, FL), and many extended family members, friends, and two important and dedicated caregivers, Kim and Kayla.

A Visitation will be held Friday, September 18, 2026, from 5:00-7:00PM at Williams-Thomas Westarea Funeral Home, 823 NW 143rd Street, Newberry, Fl. Funeral Services will be held Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 11:00AM at Trinity United Methodist Church Chapel, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. Gainesville, Fl 32653 with the Rev. Dr. Mark Charles officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service beginning at 10:00AM. Interment will follow at Lake Park Cemetery, Lake Park, Georgia at 2:30PM.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in her honor to Trinity United Methodist Church.

Harry T. Reid Funeral Home is posting this obituary as a courtesy to the family. Harry T. Reid Funeral Home is not handling the funeral arrangements or services.