Myra Pekary

Myra Noel Pekary, born Myra Nance Noel, passed away on March 26, 2026, at the age of 74.

Myra was born on November 28, 1951 in Richmond, Virginia. She grew up in Mineral, Virginia and attended Louisa County High School. Myra is succeeded by her three children Allison Pekary Abbs married to Nick Abbs, Ariana Pekary Gilbert married to Kirk Gilbert, and Steven Lewis Pekary; grandchildren Jessica Rose Abbs, Eleanor Noel Pekary, Steven Peyton Pekary, Holden Alexander Pekary; great grandchildren Amiyah Raelynn Abbs and Ayden Mikel-Raynard Carey; and sister Barbara Noel Eldridge. She was preceded in death by her parents Peyton and Manning Noel, brother Barry Noel, and ex-husband Steve Pekary.

As a spirited young girl, Myra enjoyed cheerleading and horseback riding, and actually coaxed her father Peyton Noel to build a horse show ground in the town of Mineral, now Walton Park.

Myra’s love of horses and farm life extended into adulthood. She met her husband Steve Pekary through a local horse farm and together they founded the successful horse breeding and training business, Tyra Arabians. Through this business, Myra was able to touch and inspire countless friends, clients and students with her love of the horse. After selling the farm, Myra excelled as one of the top salespeople for Southern States thanks to her knowledge of horse care and equine nutrition.

Myra was also a talented woodworker and craftswoman, expanding her parents’ business, Peyton Place Antiques, to include colonial-style lanterns and decorative plates. She also bred Cavalier King Charles Spaniels for many years.

A devoted animal lover throughout her life, her pets also included cats, numerous pound puppies, parakeets, pigs, and domesticated rats.

Myra will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and the deep love she had for family and friends. She had a warm spirit and a generous heart, and she touched the lives of many people who were fortunate to know her.

A private family gathering will be held to celebrate Myra’s life in the fall. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Orange County Animal Shelter, or that those who knew her honor her memory through acts of kindness.

Myra’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.