Margaret M. Fein

Margaret Fein lived her life like her favorite color—red: bold, warm, and full of heart. She was elegant and polished, yet as real as they come. She believed it was just as important to feel comfortable dining in the finest restaurant as it was to be content camping beneath the stars.

Born in Bradenton, Florida, Margaret grew up surrounded by the love and strength of her close-knit family. Her grandparents founded the U.S. Marble and Granite Company in Oneco, where she witnessed early on the quiet power of capable women—her mother, Mary, who led the family business with compassion and grace, and her grandmother, Lena, the strong and petite matriarch who anchored the family. Summers spent with her grandparents in Franklin, North Carolina became cherished memories filled with laughter, learning, and love.

From an early age, Margaret was drawn to connection and service. As a Rainbow Girl in her youth, she developed a lifelong love for philanthropy and giving back. She later attended the University of South Florida, where she served as President of her sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta, building friendships and leadership skills that she carried throughout her life.

A speech-language pathologist by profession and a nurturer by nature, Margaret devoted her career to helping children from all walks of life. From her work at MacDonald Training Center and All Children’s Hospital, to a decades-long career in private practice, her compassion was limitless. She believed every child deserved a voice and the chance to be understood—and she worked tirelessly to make that happen. Her kindness extended far beyond her work and into regular volunteerism. She had an extraordinary ability to make others feel seen, valued, and loved—whether they were lifelong friends or perfect strangers.

Margaret loved to travel and explore the world. She found joy in learning from other cultures and believed deeply in the beauty of our differences. When her daughter Brittany was a little girl, she planned beach trips every summer, and headed for the mountains each fall with her mother Mary—annual travel traditions for the “three girls” filled with laughter and love.

Her partnership with her beloved husband Alan Fein was one of mutual respect, deep friendship, and enduring love. Together, they shared a zest for life and adventure that carried them across the globe—from the beaches of Hawaii to the mountains of Alaska, and from the vineyards of Italy to the streets of Paris. They found joy not only in grand journeys but in simple moments—Sunday drives with no destination, coffee on the porch, and evenings filled with laughter and conversation. They complemented each other perfectly: her warmth and optimism paired beautifully with his humor, steadiness, and devotion. Their marriage was a true partnership built on trust, laughter, and unwavering support.

When she was not working or traveling, Margaret enjoyed cooking, reading biographies, listening to the rain, and cherishing the great outdoors. She had a particular love for Marilyn Monroe’s timeless grace, which inspired her sense of style and appreciation for classic beauty. Over the years, she curated a charming collection of Marilyn Merlot wines, delicate teapots, and elegant dolls—each piece reflecting her eye for detail, her love of stories, and her appreciation for the artistry found in everyday things. She especially loved choosing pieces for her grandchildren, hoping they would one day cherish them as gentle reminders of her love and laughter. Holidays were her favorite time—her kitchen overflowing with love, laughter, and the scent of her grandmother Lena’s cornbread stuffing.

An optimist at heart, she faced life’s challenges with quiet strength and steady hope. She taught those around her that even in difficult times, a new day was always just around the corner.

Above all else, family was always at her heart’s center. She was an extraordinary mother, and she made sure her work fit around her family—not the other way around. She always served as homeroom mom, and attended every game where Brittany was a cheerleader. She filled childhood with bike rides, porch swing talks, and afternoons playing Barbies on the floor. Brittany never had to wonder if she was loved—she always knew.

That same unconditional love extended to her grandchildren, who lovingly called her Nonnie and Gaio. They knew her as a source of comfort, curiosity, and fun. Margaret made sure they experienced the joy of travel, the warmth of family traditions, and the kind of holidays that spark lifelong memories. She gave them the same gift she had always given her daughter: the certainty of being deeply, joyfully loved.

Her faith was deeply rooted, yet beautifully inclusive. While raised as Christian, Margaret’s appreciation of all religions and cultures led her to embrace and honor her husband’s Jewish heritage with sincerity and grace. She delighted in setting a traditional table for Passover and Hanukkah, preparing latkes and other dishes with love and reverence. For her, it was never about ritual alone—it was about connection, family, and honoring what is sacred in each tradition.

Margaret loved deeply and freely. She gave the best hugs, never forgot a birthday, and wrote heartfelt notes into every card or book she shared. Her laughter was contagious, her spirit unshakable, and her love unconditional.

Margaret is survived by her devoted husband, Alan Fein, who was her best friend, steadfast partner, and the love of her life; her loving daughter, Brittany Bevilacqua, who was her pride and joy; and her wonderful son-in-law, Scott Hood, who fondly called her “Mom.” She was the adoring grandmother of Lena Bevilacqua, Gavin Hood, Lily Fender, Sam Fender, Amanda Fein, and Jonas Fein, each of whom brought her endless happiness and laughter.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Mary Miller, her father, Havis Riley Miller Sr., and her brother, Riley Miller.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, from 4:00–6:00 PM at Sylvan Abbey, 2853 Sunset Point Road. Guests are invited to wear bright colors and join in sharing stories, laughter, and love—just as Margaret would have wanted.

Her light has not gone out; it has simply expanded.

Everywhere love shines,

Margaret is still there.

Even in her death, Margaret continued to give to others and share her love and legacy through the gift of brain donation. This donation will allow for research that could not otherwise be conducted so that future generations may not have to suffer with a dementia diagnosis.

In lieu of flowers, Margaret’s family requests charitable contributions be made to Brain Support Network, PO Box 7264, Menlo Park, CA 94026, or visit

https://www.brainsupportnetwork.org/donate/#cc

And be sure to list that it is in memory of Margaret Fein.