Margaret Ann “Peg” Gaines

Margaret Ann “Peg” Gaines passed away peacefully on October 26, 2025, at the age of 71. Born in District of Columbia, on January 18, 1954, Peg spent most of her life in Alexandria, VA where she created a home filled with family, laughter, and a deep sense of belonging.

Guided by her Catholic faith, Peg embodied compassion, love, and unwavering devotion to those she cared about. She treasured her family above all else. She was a devoted wife to her husband, Albert Gaines of Port Charlotte, Florida, and a loving mother to her children, Jennifer Floyd (Michael) of Moyock, North Carolina, and Daniel Payne (Carrie) of Sugarloaf Key, Florida. Peg was also a caring stepmother to Kathy Bogad (Kurt) and Steve Gaines, both of Bradenton, Florida, caring sister to Earl “EJ” Longauer of Arlington, Virginia, along with her niece and nephew, Shannon Longauer and Brian Longauer.

Her greatest joy was being “Nana” to her grandchildren: Madison Floyd of Moyock, North Carolina, and Zachary Payne and Tucker Payne, both of Sugarloaf Key, Florida. She also lovingly embraced her step-grandchildren, Briana Bogad and Tyler Bogad, both of Bradenton, Florida. Peg loved her children and grandchildren fiercely and proudly boasted about their accomplishments to anyone who would listen—never missing a chance to cheer them on or wrap them in the warmest hugs.

Peg loved being outdoors—planting colorful flowers, soaking up sunshine by the pool, and hosting gatherings where she was the heart of every celebration (and always had the best appetizers). She was deeply proud of her Irish heritage and delighted in telling stories of her childhood and family roots. Smart and strategic, Peg dedicated over 30 years of service to the United States Government under the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, meeting each challenge with determination and resourcefulness.

Peg is survived by her husband, Albert; her children and step-children; her grandchildren and step-grandchildren, her brother, niece and nephew. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Earl and Margaret Longauer and Sister-in -law, Ilene Longauer.

Peg’s warmth, kindness, and hospitality left a lasting imprint on everyone she met. Her legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and adored her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at a time and date to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Albemarle Home Health & Hospice in her memory. Mail checks to 129 Horseshoe Road, Elizabeth City NC 27909. Phone # 252-338-4066.

“May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back…
And may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.