With profound sadness and deep admiration, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Peggy Ann Little, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Peggy passed away peacefully on May 16, 2025, at the age of 85, due to natural causes. Her vibrant and loving spirit touched the lives of many, leaving a legacy of warmth and kindness that will endure through the ages.
Peggy was born on July 14, 1939, in the culturally rich neighborhood of Harlem, New York, to the late Helen Margaret Sampson-Ray and Edward Bowe. From an early age, Peggy exhibited a zest for life and a natural inclination toward kindness, qualities that she would carry throughout her lifetime.
She attended P.S. 5 Elementary, Junior High School 136, and graduated from Central Commercial High School in Harlem in 1956. Her education was the foundation upon which she built a successful career, starting in secretarial positions and eventually working as a Supervisor for the Salvation Army. Peggy's career flourished in the New York Family Court system, where she served diligently at both the Queens and Bronx Family Courts. Her dedication and commitment culminated in her retirement from the Department of Probation in October 2001, a testament to her unwavering work ethic and passion for helping others.
Peggy's personal life was as rich and fulfilling as her professional endeavors. She was married to Leroy Henderson and later to Al Little, sharing a life filled with love and companionship. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. Peggy cherished her daughters, Crystal Stokes, Cheryl Henderson, and Lisa Henderson, and was immensely proud of her role as a grandmother to nine grandchildren and a great-grandmother to thirty-three great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind a host of extended family members and friends who were touched by her generosity and spirit.
Peggy was known for her love of family gatherings, where she would often host picnics, barbecues, and birthday celebrations that brought joy and laughter to all. Her love for music and dance was infectious, and her ability to connect with others made every encounter with her memorable. Peggy's kindness was boundless; she was a wise soul who listened with a compassionate ear, offering support and comfort to anyone in need. Her empathetic nature made those around her feel whole, safe, and cherished.
A service celebrating Peggy's life will be held on July 12, 2026, at 4:00 PM at the Hampton Inn & Suites Caterer Hall. Family and friends will gather to honor the life of a woman who was the epitome of warmth, generosity, and love. Peggy Ann Little's legacy will forever remain in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched, and she will be deeply missed by all.
Rest in peace, dear Peggy. Your light will continue to shine brightly in our hearts.
Funeral Program
Service Details
July 12, 202616:00
Hampton Inn & Suites Caterer Hall
Order of Service
ProcessionalImmediate Family Members
Musical Song SelectionSentimental by Kenny G
Prayer of Comfort
Old Testament Reading Psalms 23
New Testament Reading John 11:25-26
Family/Friends Tribute Remarks5 Minutes
Peggy Ann Little Obituary Reading
Musical Song SelectionDon't Cry for Me By CeCe Winans
Closing RemarksI'm Free
I’m Free
Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free,
I took His hand when I heard Him call,
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work, to play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I found that peace at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,
Ah, yes, these things I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow,
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your hearts and peace to thee,
God wanted me now; He set me free.
Special Thanks
The family of Peggy Ann Little extends heartfelt gratitude for your prayers, support, and kindness during this time. The Sampson legacy was Peggy’s shield and guide. In her honor, let us stand united in that protection, return to our roots, and let the spark of her memory awaken the strength within us all.