Mariah Peckham Barkdull Eldridge passed away peacefully and quietly with the angels in the early hours at home with her family on November 16, 2022 in Marianna, FL.
She was born on September 28, 1933 in Philadelphia, PA to Edward White Barkdull, M.D., and Maria Hardin Hill Barkdull.
Her father, being a stateside physician in the Army, made family relocation common, cultivating her natural character of embracing new people and places. Very curious and talented, she enjoyed any puzzle or exploration, (with her enthusiasm so often spilling over onto the grandchildren), reading, photography, music, sewing, quilting, and stained glass. She created many noteworthy stained-glass pieces including special windows for the Jackson Hospital chapel, and Trinity Episcopal Church in Apalachicola, FL.
She worked as a lab technician for James T. Cook, Jr., M.D. in Marianna, FL for 19 years. Being able to interact and care for the patients in the community gave her great joy. Other activities she enjoyed was being an active member of the Pilot Club of Marianna, Ladies Club of Blountstown, and playing french horn in the Chipola Regional Orchestra.
Always the graceful optimist, she will be remembered with her loving smile; “a smile in her voice, sweet and buoyant”, a close cousin lovingly remembers. One of her granddaughters is quoted as saying, “A literal angel – If you knew her, you would know”.
Peckham, Mama, Aunt Peck, Gramma, Gigi, we will miss you. Your life was a loving example to us all; how to live gracefully and graciously. Thank you.
Peckham was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, Miles Eldridge; brother, James Barkdull; sister, Jane Barkdull Sherburne; niece, Robyn Sherburne; and grandson, Thomas Kendall Hamm.
She is survived by her three children, Rosanne Caughran, Ross Caughran (Sissy), Cathy Caughran Hamm (Kenny); seven grandchildren, Shawn Gause (Minnie), Dekle Willis (Cassie), Michael Caughran (Jessie), Lyle Caughran, Austin Caughran, Aaron Caughran, Stephanie Hamm Ward (Keith); three step-children, Pam Hand (Ronnie), Pat Mullins (Jim), Cathy Kimbrel (Glenn); and eight wonderful great grandchildren who love their Gigi !!!
Memorialization will be by cremation with Marianna Chapel Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. The family will have a private celebration in her honor.
In honor of Peckham, a memorial musical scholarship will be set up through Chipola College. Contact Cathy Hamm at [email protected] for more information.
Condolences may be made online at www.mariannachapelfh.com
