May 16, 1961 – May 26, 2026
Margaret Mary Johanson-Sanchez
Margaret Mary “Peggy” Johanson-Sanchez passed peacefully at 9:00 a.m. on May 26, 2026, after a ten-year journey with Alzheimer’s disease. Her caring and loving husband, Phil A. “Sam” Sanchez, devoted himself to her care throughout her illness and remained faithfully by her side through her final moments. Peggy will be remembered for her deep faith in God, her radiant spirit, her strength, and the warmth and kindness she brought into the lives of others.
Born on May 16, 1961, Peggy was raised on Bainbridge Island, Washington, alongside her parents and siblings. Surrounded by the beauty of Puget Sound, beaches, forests, and a close-knit family, she developed a lifelong love for nature, the ocean, and the simple joys of life.
Peggy graduated from Bainbridge High School in 1979 and soon began her career with MA Bell. Through decades of corporate changes and company transitions, she remained a dedicated employee until retiring in 2014. Her strong work ethic, determination, and commitment were qualities that served her well throughout her career.
On September 19, 2009, Peggy married Phil A. “Sam” Sanchez. Together they shared many years of life’s blessings and challenges.
Peggy’s greatest joy was her daughter, Veronica Johanson-Faison. Their bond was built on unconditional love, shared adventures, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Family was at the center of Peggy’s life, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with those she loved.
Peggy found happiness in horses, beach-combing, the scent of lilacs in bloom, and time spent along the shores of Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean. She looked forward to annual trips with her lifelong girlfriends, creating memories filled with laughter, stories, and friendship. Her bond with her sisters, Billie Kae, Sally Jo, and Suzy, was one of the greatest blessings of her life. Together they shared decades of celebrations, meals, stories, tears, and unwavering support.
Her faith in God was one of the cornerstones of her life. Quiet yet steadfast, her faith guided the way she loved others, faced challenges, and lived each day. Through joy and sorrow, health and illness, Peggy’s faith remained unwavering. Even as Alzheimer’s changed so much, it never diminished the grace, kindness, and compassion that defined her. Those who loved Peggy find comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord she trusted throughout her life.
Those who knew Peggy will remember her beautiful curly hair, infectious laugh, quick wit, and the warmth she brought into every room. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and loved. Her spirit, humor, and generosity touched countless lives and will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Peggy is survived by her husband, Phil A. “Sam” Sanchez; her daughter, Veronica Johanson-Faison; her sisters, Billie Kae Rabang, Sally Jo LaGranduer, and Suzy Claflin; her brother, Donnie Johanson; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and lifelong friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur E. Johanson and Farrell E. “Sally” Welfare-Johanson; her sister, Betty Ann Coleman; and her brother, Jimmy Johanson.
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Celebration of Life
Peggy wanted her farewell to be a celebration, not a time of sadness. She wanted laughter, music, good food, happy memories, and the company of family and friends.
Please join us in celebrating the life of Margaret Mary “Peggy” Johanson-Sanchez on:
Saturday, June 27, 2026
3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Filipino American Community Hall
7566 NE High School Road
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
Guests are invited to gather beginning at 3:00 p.m. Dinner will be served at 4:00 p.m., followed by an opportunity for family and friends to share stories, laughter, and memories of this amazing, beautiful, witty, and passionate woman whom we were blessed to know.
In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Peggy’s lifelong love of horses, memorial donations may be made to:
Toni’s Ponies
Both organizations are located in Kingston, Washington, and are dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing sanctuary for horses and ponies that have suffered abuse, neglect, or are at risk of slaughter.
“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23
