Peggy Washington Bullard "Grandma"

Today is a celebration of the life of Mother Peggy Washington Bullard, affectionately known as "Grandma," who departed this life on July 24, 2026. Born on June 12, 1934, in Lumberton, North Carolina, Peggy was the cherished daughter of Kelly Washington and Daily Cogdell Washington. She is reunited in eternal rest with her parents and her beloved sister, Christine Whitehead. Peggy's journey was one of compassion and unwavering dedication to her family and community. She was a proud alumna of Bladen County Training School in Elizabethtown, NC, and earned her Bachelor of Science in Home Economics Education from St. Paul’s Polytechnic Institute in Lawrenceville, VA. Her pursuit of knowledge led her to further studies at Cornell University, the Veterans Administration Hospital in Brooklyn, NY, and Fayetteville Technical Community College. For nearly three decades, Peggy served as a Registered Dietician at Peninsula General Hospital, now Peninsula Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, in Far Rockaway, NY. As the first black woman to supervise dietary workers in a 200-bed hospital and the first black person to gain membership in the American Dietetic Association, Peggy's career was marked by pioneering achievements. Her work was a testament to her passion for nutrition and her compassionate nature, ensuring that those under her care received nourishment with kindness and dignity. In 1988, Peggy expanded her nurturing spirit by opening her first Family Care Day Center, where she ministered to families and lovingly cared for children aged 1-7. Her commitment to community service was further reflected through her involvement with numerous organizations, including the American Dietetic Association, Alms House, Hands That Help Center, the Volunteer Guardian Ad Litem Program, and Cumberland County Schools. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Peggy was a woman of diverse interests, with a particular fondness for wrestling and game shows. Her heart was as generous as it was loving, dedicating much of her life to the care and nurturing of children, whether teaching, feeding, or guiding them with wisdom and warmth. Her family, especially her daughter, Adrianne R. Bullard of Fayetteville, NC, and her extended family, were the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Peggy leaves behind a loving daughter, Adrianne, and a host of special relatives and friends, including Anthony (Sharon) of Lumberton, NC; John Pittman of Hempstead, NY; Albert Pierce (Jackie) of Queens, NY; Thomas Pierce (Barbara) of Apollo, PA; Ezell Cuttray of Maxton, NY; Marzette Cuttray of Hempstead, NY; Jennie Alford (Alexander) of Fayetteville, NC; Edward Cuttry of Dover, Delaware; Floyd Powell of Laurinburg, NC; Winnetka (Joseph) of New Orleans, LA; Raphel; John Bullard, Jr. of Houston, TX; her sister Thelma Malone, and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to The Cumberland County Sheriff's Office, Retired Captain Regina Hart and family, for their constant support and care for Peggy. Thanks are also extended to the Hope Mills Medical Center Staff, especially Tremika Simms, Charge Nurse, for providing companionship and joy to Peggy in her later years. In honor of Peggy's life and legacy, donations may be made to a charity of your choice that supports children and families, reflecting her lifelong commitment to nurturing and care. Mother Peggy Washington Bullard's life was a beacon of love and service, and her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and gratitude.