News Summary

Hamden bids farewell to Margaret Jane ‘Peggy’ Berthold, a cherished educator and lawyer who passed away at the age of 83. Known for her dedication to teaching and her impactful legal career, Peggy inspired many in her community. Survived by her family and friends, she leaves behind a legacy of love and service. A memorial service is planned for May 3, 2025.

Hamden Says Goodbye to a Beloved Educator and Lawyer: Margaret Jane Berthold

Hamden, CT – In a heartfelt farewell to one of its most cherished residents, Margaret Jane “Peggy” Berthold sadly passed away peacefully at her home in April 2023 at the age of 83. Peggy was a remarkable woman whose life was a mosaic of achievements, passions, and a perfect blend of teaching and law that made a significant impact on her community.

A Life Well Lived

Born in 1939 in Wheaton, IL, Peggy was the daughter of Herbert Charles “Pete” Berthold and Ruth Virginia Goode Berthold. From her early days, she exhibited a love for learning and an exceptional intellect. This love would lead her to graduate with a coveted Phi Beta Kappa Key from Miami University in Ohio in 1961. It was there that she also met her future husband, Willits Herbert Sawyer, III, who later served valiantly in SEAL Team One. The couple tied the knot in a charming ceremony at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco in 1962 and welcomed two sons into their lives, enriching their family experience.

An Education Pioneer

After starting her teaching career at Coronado High School in California in 1962, Peggy quickly won the hearts of her students. With her dedication and passion for the English language, she inspired countless young minds throughout her teaching tenure. Peggy’s commitment to education led her to further her own studies; in 1968, she earned a master’s degree in English from San Diego State University, graduating with the highest honors, Summa Cum Laude.

Embarking on a Legal Career

In 1971, Peggy made a move to New Haven, CT, where her remarkable journey continued. She graduated from the prestigious University of Connecticut’s School of Law with high honors in 1978 and donned the legal robes, initially working at two reputable law firms before launching her private family law practice in New Haven in 1982. Over the years, she solidified her reputation as one of the top family lawyers in Connecticut, always ready to champion the needs of her clients.

A Heart for Service

Throughout her life, Peggy was deeply involved in her community. She took on leadership roles, including serving on the board of the Adolescent & Family Counseling Center. Her advocacy for family welfare resonated within the local community, and her contributions did not go unnoticed. Peggy had a zest for life and enjoyed various activities such as traveling, embracing the arts, and attending the theater, where she also served on the board of The Elm Shakespeare Company.

A Love for the Outdoors

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Peggy had a flair for more joyous pursuits. A lover of dancing, swimming, and gardening, she also had a special connection with dogs, enjoying long walks with the many canines she had throughout her life. She was known for her work in breeding, training, and showing German Shepherds, including a champion stud named Huckleberry during her wonderful years in Coronado.

Remembering Peggy

Surviving Peggy are her brother, Dr. Charles Ernest Whitby Berthold, her eldest son, Edward “Ted” Case Sawyer, II, and her beloved grandchildren, Benjamin Prescott Sawyer and Lillian Grace Sawyer. Additionally, she is survived by her niece and nephews: Debra Smith, Mark Giblin, and Michael Giblin. Peggy’s family is also mourning the recent loss of her youngest son, Gregory Berthold Sawyer, who passed away in January 2025 at the age of 53.

A Tribute to a Remarkable Life

A memorial service is scheduled for May 3, 2025, at 4 PM at Trinity on the Green in New Haven, CT, where friends and family will gather to remember the extraordinary life of Peggy Berthold. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in her memory to the Sarah T. Crosby Conservatory, C/O Edgerton Park Conservancy, P.O. Box 6163, Hamden, CT 06517, or online at www.edgertonpark.org.

For those wishing to reach out to the family during this difficult time, they can be contacted through the Sisk Brothers Funeral Home at www.siskbrothers.com.

As Hamden reflects on Peggy’s life, there is no doubt that she has left behind a legacy filled with love, knowledge, and kindness that will continue to inspire those who knew her.

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Author: RISadlog

Tagged Coronado arts, Coronado community

Hamden Remembers Beloved Educator and Lawyer Peggy Berthold