Pauline Hines Peagler

Pauline Hines Peagler, 95, passed peacefully on February 22, 2026, surrounded by love and family.

Born March 4, 1930, in Blount Springs, Alabama, to Neal Cornelius Hines and Willie Bell Hines, Pauline was raised in the Jim Crow South, where she developed the resilience, discipline, and faith that would define her remarkable life.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings William, Robert, Mary, Gus, Dee, Freddie, and Rose; and her daughter, Barbara Gay.

Pauline possessed a sharp mind and natural gift for numbers, believing every penny should be accounted for—famously once calling her bank over a two-cent discrepancy. She worked as a domestic in her early years and later moved to Minnesota, where she found great joy working in a hospital nursery caring for newborn babies.A gifted homemaker and craftswoman, Pauline built what she needed with her own hands—constructing a closet in her home, tiling floors, refinishing furniture, sewing beautifully, and later becoming an accomplished quilter. She was a devoted Baptist and faithfully served as an usher for more than 50 years. Known for her modest spirit and infectious smile, she was affectionately called “Grandma” by many.

Family was central to her life. She faithfully attended every Hines–Johnson Family Reunion from 1983 through 2025 and opened her home as a foster mother to many children. She worked tirelessly to provide opportunities for her family, helping ensure her grandchildren could attend college and pursue their dreams. She also traveled widely, living courageously and without fear.

She is survived by her daughter, Eddria Hines Gillespie; her brothers, Eddie Johnson (Ruth) and James Johnson (Barbara); nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a host of extended family and friends.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:23