Margaret Louise McGarity passed away September 16, 2014 peacefully, and with her loving family by her side, after a courageous battle against ovarian cancer that lasted nearly 7 years. Her battle against cancer strengthened her faith in God, whose plan and wisdom she never questioned. Margaret was born February 7, l946 in St. Joseph MO, as the only child of Louis G. and Mary Alice Littler Pinger. She is preceded in death by her parents and her granddaughter, Katherine Elizabeth Grimes, whom she is excited to greet at the gates of heaven.
Margaret is survived by her devoted husband, John F. McGarity, whose own journey thru Margaret's cancer and treatment gave new meaning to their marriage vow "in sickness and in health". Their love and faith strengthened during Margaret's long illness. Their gratitude for each other, as well as their family, friends, and everyone involved in their care, both spiritual and physical, unlocked the door to a richer life that turned their fears into acceptance, peace and thanksgiving for all of the blessings that God had given to them.
Margaret is survived by two loving sons; Steven Grimes (Christina) of St. Joseph, MO, and Matthew Grimes (Michelle), who are the parents of her twin granddaughters, Anne Marie and Mary Elizabeth, of Memphis, TN. Margaret was so thankful for their love, concern, calls, emails, text messages, care packages and most importantly the many visits shared with the granddaughters. Every visit was devoted to making lasting memories; experiencing Margaret's love of art and painting, gardening, baking, crafts, and sharing with them the gift of God's love and the love of family and friends.
Margaret had three step-children. Michael (Caryn) McGarity, of Braselton, GA, Scott (Cami) McGarity, of Gainesville, GA, and Carrie (Larry) Woodcock, of Gainesville, GA, as well as six step-grandchildren, and two great granddaughters.
Margaret attended Missouri Western State University, and graduated from the Methodist School of Nursing. In 1986 Margaret moved to Gainesville, GA, where she was a registered nurse at NEGMC. She later became the Infirmary Supervisor at Riverside Military Academy, Gainesville, GA, from where she retired from nursing in 1996.
Margaret devoted much of her time to the service of others. During her life in St. Joseph, MO, she was a member of the Junior League, a Docent at the Albrecht Art Gallery, and a Board member at St. Francis Xavier School. After moving to Georgia, she volunteered at Good News at Noon in Gainesville, GA, as well as Community Helping Place, in Dahlonega, GA. She was a charter member of the Birch River/Achasta Ladies Club, Dahlonega, GA, serving as the first President of that organization, as well as two subsequent terms. She was also a charter member of the Achasta Garden Club. Margaret was committed to caring for and sharing with those less fortunate and spent many hours involved in fundraising efforts to support those in need. Margaret learned and enjoyed oil painting and yoga, and felt that the camaraderie of participating in those activities were as important as doing the activity itself.
Margaret's life was an example to the power of courage, faith and love, and the positive difference they make in both our living and our dying. She battled a disease that would not let go as family and friends ministered to her and John through their many acts of kindness. She took part in an experimental treatment protocol that will help others with ovarian cancer survive longer in the future. No matter how ill she was, she always reached out to others, inspiring them through her positive attitude, strength, resilience and resolve. Through Margaret we learned to be strong and gracious. Together we learned what it is to be true friends. Together we were able to share much laughter and even tears; to face challenges, and embrace the master plan that God has for all of our lives. Margaret believed that we pass all that we are to our children and our children's children. Her love, character, stewardship and acts of kindness were an example to all that knew her, and her courage in the face of tremendous adversity will inspire others when they face their own trials. Margaret believed that just as fruit does not fall far from the tree, neither do children stray from their heroes. All of our actions need to stand tall in the eyes of our children.
We will truly miss this extraordinary lady who enriched our lives with grace and beauty. This wife, mother, grandmother and friend will always be a true inspiration to us.
Mass will be performed for Margaret at 2 pm, Friday September 19, 2014 at St Luke's Catholic Church in Dahlonega, GA. A reception at the church will follow mass.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to the Northeast Georgia Hospice: 2150 Limestone Pkwy St 222, Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 219-8888
Arrangements provided by Dahlonega Funeral Home, 20 Gibson Road Dahlonega, GA (706) 864-3683.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.dahlonegafuneralhome.com
