URGENT UPDATE: Peggy Cooper Poindexter, a trailblazing figure in the field of public administration and a passionate advocate for education, has passed away at the age of 76. She died on October 21, 2025, due to complications from surgery following a recent cancer diagnosis. Her husband, Jeffry Poindexter, and daughters Allison Balin and Kathryn Lager were by her side during this difficult time.
This heartbreaking news comes as the community remembers Peggy not only for her professional achievements but also for her immense warmth and dedication to family. Peggy’s legacy as a pioneer for women in the Department of Defense and an advocate for education will be cherished by many.
Born in Shamokin, PA on February 8, 1949, Peggy spent her early years surrounded by her loving family in both Shamokin and Arlington, VA. She was a staunch believer in the power of education, graduating from Muhlenberg College in 1971 with a degree in social science. Her commitment to learning continued as she earned a master’s degree in public administration from Cal State Long Beach in 1978.
Peggy’s career began with the Air Force in 1973, where she participated in a groundbreaking financial management training program. Her journey led her to significant roles within the Department of Defense and the intelligence community, culminating in her retirement as a Senior Executive at the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency. She was widely recognized for her expertise in Earned Value Management, especially in software-intensive systems.
In her personal life, Peggy shared a deep partnership with Jeff, whom she married on October 14, 1978, at the Presidio in San Francisco, CA. Together, they enjoyed a fulfilling life filled with travel, gourmet cooking, and a close-knit circle of friends. Peggy’s culinary skills were legendary, as she often brought people together with her memorable meals.
As a devoted mother, she was actively engaged in her daughters’ activities, instilling in them a love for food and family traditions. Peggy’s commitment to her family extended to her role as matriarch after the passing of her parents, where she embraced her extended family with open arms.
Community involvement was another cornerstone of Peggy’s life. Recently, she served as President of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), where she launched scholarship initiatives and cooking clubs, reflecting her dedication to empowering others.
Peggy is survived by her husband, daughters, sons-in-law Aaron Lager and Nikita Balin, and her cherished grandchildren, Forest and Nico Lager, along with Billy and Vinny Balin, who is due on December 9th.
A celebration of Peggy Cooper Poindexter’s life will be held on Sunday, November 2nd, at 11 AM at Burnt Cedar Beach in Incline Village, NV. Family and friends are invited to honor her remarkable legacy and the indelible impact she made on countless lives.
This developing story serves as a reminder of the profound influence one individual can have on their community and the world. Peggy’s journey exemplifies dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to both personal and professional growth.
