Margaret Evelyn Clarke

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our Mom, Margaret Evelyn Clarke (nee Cripps), at the age of 82, on January 4, 2025. Mom was born in Emsdale on October 12, 1942 to Blanche (nee Dixon) and Everette Cripps.

Mom married our Dad, Murray Clarke, at Trinity United Church in Huntsville on February 20, 1960 and in 1961 they started their family. Dear mother of Carol (Norm) Clarke, Betty (John) Baumhour, Dan (Christina) Clarke and Len (Karen) Clarke. Loving Grandmother of Josh (Brodie), Ryan (Samantha), Cindy (Scott), Kurtis (Kristen), Clinton (Victoria), Nathan, Zandrea, Amber (Justin), Nick (Courtney), Abby, Noah and Alden McCoy. Cherished Great-grandmother of Presleigh, Charlee May, Brooklyn, Silas, Chance, Charlotte, Callum, Avianna and Lina.

Survived by her brother John and his wife Isabelle. Fondly remembered by cousins, nieces, nephews and as well as her morning coffee friends and staff at the Huntsville McDonald’s.

Pre-deceased by her parents as well as her son Roger, and grandchildren, Justin and Evangeline.

In Mom’s younger years she lived in Emsdale but also travelled and lived in various locations in Ontario. After finishing school she was hired by a local Huntsville family to care for their young children. Later she worked in the kitchen at the Huntsville Hospital and it was during this time that she met Murray. Then she became a stay at home mom and cared for her own children. Her family was her world and she thoroughly enjoyed caring for them as well as others. She also had a love for animals and would enjoy dog-sitting for family and friends. Mom loved to garden, do embroidery and enjoyed walking. She was also a member of the Huntsville Legion. Mom’s favourite colour was pink and she wore it well. Part of her daily walk would include a stop at McDonalds for coffee where she would also check her lottery tickets as her dream was to win big so she could share it with her family. Little did she know, her family already felt like they won it because she was the best Mom and Grandma ever. For years, she cared for her own mother and daily they would visit or at least chat on the phone nightly. Mom was known as the cookie Grandma to her grandchildren as there was always a full jar during their visits. Christmas was also a special time as she always hosted the family dinner and also invited those who would otherwise spend it alone. Mom was a sweet, kind and loving person. She will forever be in our hearts and will be deeply missed.

If considering a donation, please consider a charity that supports animals.

A visitation will be held on January 9, 2025 at Billingsley Funeral Home from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm at Billingsley Funeral Home, followed by a reception.