Peggy Rae Howerton

Peggy Rae (Scott) Howerton of Alta Vista passed away on August 30, 2026, at age 75, in Manhattan, KS. She was born December 27, 1950, to Clyde and H. Belle Scott, who lived and farmed in Delavan, KS.

She attended grade school first in Delavan and later in Wilsey, KS. She was active in the 4-H program throughout her childhood and teen years, winning multiple ribbons on her projects. Her family was active in the Eastern Kansas Horseman's Association (EKHA), with Peggy showing horses and even competing in barrel racing for a time.

Peggy attended Wilsey High School for three years before graduating from Council Grove High School in the Class of 1968. She actively participated many activities, such as playing saxophone in the band, singing in the choir, acting in plays and musicals, playing girls' basketball, and serving as a class officer and the Kayettes' president.

After graduation, Peggy attended business school in Emporia, where she gained many skills that helped her succeed in bookkeeping and accounting jobs throughout her lifetime. Her first marriage brought the joy of mothering her two children and the adventure of living in Wyoming, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas. It was her second marriage on February 22, 2002, to Phillip Howerton of Alta Vista, KS, that brought the love of her lifetime.

In 1988, Peggy returned to live permanently in the Flint Hills. She worked for Capitol Airlines in Manhattan, KS, but soon after took a job as an office assistant and accounting specialist at Kansas State University for the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering. Seven years later, she transferred to the College of Veterinary Medicine and worked her way up to an accountant position. Her love of KSU turned her favorite color to purple, and she enjoyed rooting for all K-State's sports teams. After 23 years of dedicated service to KSU, Peggy retired in 2012. She was well known for her thorough knowledge, impeccable work ethic, efficiency, and attention to detail.

In retirement, Peggy discovered a passion for traveling. She and Phil visited many states and countries spread over six continents. Between trips, Peggy enjoyed tending her flowers and spending time with family. She organized family get-togethers, hosted relatives at her home, and attended many youth activities of her grandkids, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Among Peggy's best friends were her four older siblings and their spouses.Her fun, adventurous spirit made her a hit with everyone, and her laughter and positive outlook will definitely be missed.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents, as well as several aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her husband Phillip Howerton; daughter, Billie Hainsey, and grandson Devan; son, Scott Hainsey, and wife Nichole, as well as her four siblings, Bruce Scott, Barbara Smith, Carole Day, and Calvin Scott, and their spouses. Peggy also leaves behind Phil's son Trent Howerton, his wife, Vicki, and their daughter Hannah, and an abundance of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, other relatives, and friends.