Margaret’s Obituary

Margaret passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on April 22, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on April 4, 1955, Margaret lived a life defined by love, inclusion, advocacy, and unwavering devotion to family and community.

For more than 50 years in the Bay Area, Margaret created a beautiful life and career alongside one of her closest companions, Laura. Together, they raised their children and dedicated their lives to creating opportunities for people with developmental disabilities, always striving to build a world without limits. Margaret was a tireless advocate who not only imagined greater possibilities for individuals with disabilities, but worked every day to make those possibilities real through compassion, determination, and action.

Margaret had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome. Whether greeting someone with a warm hug or kiss, or making room for one more person at the table, she led with love in all that she did. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Over the last 28 years, Margaret built a vibrant and loving home with her husband and life partner, John. As passionate travelers, they loved exploring the world together alongside Margaret’s parents, children, and extended family. She was happiest near the ocean, where she could often be found snorkeling among colorful fish and soaking in the beauty of the sea. She also found joy in good wine, great music, meaningful conversation, and sharing her unforgettable, infectious laugh with those around her. And watching Warriors basketball with John always in pajamas and always a fun thing she loved!

Margaret paved the way for so many. Her presence was a gift, and her absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew and loved her. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched. With the standards she set for what advocacy, inclusion, and unconditional love could look like, she continues to inspire others to dream bigger and care more deeply for the most marginalized people in our communities.

Margaret is survived by her husband, her children, grandchildren, extended family, and the many friends, colleagues, and community members whose lives were forever changed by her love and generosity. She leaves behind a family and community bound together by the values she embodied so completely: love without limits, kindness without condition, and a belief that everyone deserves a full and meaningful life.