Margaret M. McDonald of Atkinson NH died peacefully Sunday, September 27, 2015 at Salemhaven Rehabilitation Center in Salem, NH, surrounded by her loving family and dear friend, after a period of declining health. Margaret (Marge) (Margie) was born on December 5, 1931, the only child of immigrants from Ireland, the late Margaret (Doyle) McDonald and James McDonald. She grew up in Andover MA where she attended St. Augustine Grammar School. After graduating from St. Patrick’s High School in Lawrence, Marge entered the Order of Dominican Sisters of Caldwell New Jersey. Her religious name was Sister Mary Rosaleen, after her late aunt Rosaleen Begley. After obtaining her degree in Education, she taught at various parochial schools in New Jersey. Marge was later transferred to Assumption Dominican Convent in Lawrence. Sometime later, she left religious life to care for her aging parents. She was employed by the former Arlington Trust Company in Lawrence, MA until her retirement.
She, along with her aunt Mary Doyle, moved from Andover to Atkinson NH. She referred to Mary as her “sidekick”. Marge lovingly cared for her until her death.
Marge will be remembered as a loving, caring, faith-filled person with a strong devotion to Our Blessed Mother. She loved her home in Atkinson, the Celtics and Patriots, and most important, sharing love and words of wisdom to all who touched her life.
Margaret leaves behind many cousins including Maura Fredette and her husband Robert of Methuen, Barry Begley and his wife Deborah of Methuen, Brian Begley and his wife Helene of Wilmot NH, Mary Carleton and her husband Harry of Dunstable MA, Thomas Doyle and his wife Judith of Hampton NH. She had many dear friends, especially Midge Jacques, who were a joy in her life. She also leaves behind her constant companion, her cat, Tinker.
Marge will be loved, missed and mourned by many. Per her request there will be no calling hours. Family and friends are invited to her Funeral Mass that will be celebrated on Friday, October 2, 2015 at 10:30 am at Sacred Hearts Church 165 Main Street, Bradford MA
Margaret’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Elder Services of Atkinson, NH, her home health aides, and Salemhaven Rehabilitation Center, for all their loving care and peace of mind they gave to Marge, and we thank you.
Donations in Margaret’s memory may be made to the most loved charity of your choice.