Margarette A Rivenbark

Margarette was born on November 14, 1948, in Rocky Mount, NC, to The Honorable Mr. and Mrs. Dallas L. Alford Jr.

Margarette grew up surrounded by the warmth and love of a large family. With three siblings by her side and a multitude of aunts, uncles, and cousins, family was always at the heart of her life. Her upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for connection and togetherness, shaping her into the devoted family woman she became.

Over the years, Margarette collected several nicknames—Mug, Mom, Aunt Marge—but the one she cherished the most was Gaga.

Margarette, affectionately dubbed "Mug" during her high school years, graduated from Rocky Mount Senior High School in 1966, where her passion for leadership and involvement shone brightly. She held numerous roles, including Homeroom President, positions on the House and Grounds Committee and Cap and Gown Committee, and Chairman of the Junior-Senior Figure Committee. Margarette actively participated in the Spanish Club, Journalism Club, and Good Sports Club and served as the BLACKBIRD Business Manager and Page Editor. She was honored as a member of the “Order of the Black Feather,” served as Junior-Senior Mistress of Ceremonies, worked as an Office Assistant, and represented her school as a Delegate to the UNC Newspaper Convention.

Her dedication to her class extended well beyond graduation. She served as a member of the 1966 reunion committee and played a key role in organizing numerous reunions for the Class of 1966, always excited to reunite with longtime friends. Margarette was proud of her hometown of Rocky Mount, actively connecting with others on social media to share and celebrate its history. She cherished her identity as a Blackbird and the lifelong friendships and memories it brought her.

Margarette worked throughout her life as an HR and Payroll Administrator before her retirement in 2020.

Margarette had a passion for shag dancing and was an active member of the SOS and Charlotte Shag Club for many years. She loved going to the beach and could be found shagging at Fat Harold’s. She loved taking shag lessons and dancing, a joy she shared with her longtime partner, Don, until his illness and untimely passing many years ago brought their dancing days to a close.

Margarette’s greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren where she earned her title of “Gaga”. She was deeply involved in their lives, making it a priority to attend as many of their school and sporting events as possible. When they were younger, Gaga could often be found on the floor playing with them, creating cherished memories. She had a unique way of signing cards she gave to her grandchildren, often using "7-1-7-1," representing the 7th and 1st letters of the alphabet. She treasured bath time, filling her large garden tub with bubbles and colorful water, transforming ordinary moments into magical experiences.

Margarette's unwavering faith was the cornerstone of her life. She loved her Lord deeply and served faithfully at Millbrook United Methodist Church since 2001. Her dedication to her church and community was evident in the countless ways she gave of herself. She served on the Altar Guild as part of the Worship Committee, participated in Homebound Communion, and was an active member of the Women’s Circle of Grace and Faith Finders Sunday School. Margarette’s commitment extended to organizing and supporting community outreach programs like MUM’s Kitchen, which provides a monthly community meal, volunteering with the Food Pantry to help those in need, and contributing her time and energy to women’s retreats, First Place for Health, and Disciple Bible Studies.

She played a vital role in the Service of Healing Prayer, often sharing scripture from James 5:13-16, and enriched the lives of others through Women’s Bible Studies and the Stephen Ministry, having been commissioned as part of the Class of 2016. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Margarette was an integral part of Zoom gatherings, remaining connected with her church family even in challenging times. Her compassion extended beyond the church, as she gave generously to many individuals in need or experiencing homelessness.

Margarette’s acts of service were often quiet and humble, yet their impact was profound. Whether brightening someone’s day with a kind word or working behind the scenes to meet a need, she lived her faith in every action. Her selfless devotion and radiant spirit touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her brother, Dallas L. Alford III, and brother-in-law, Homer Duncan, Jr.

Margarette is survived by her son, Charley Rivenbark III of Rock Hill, SC; her daughter, Ginger Carpenter (Terry) of Cary; and her cherished grandchildren: Charles Rivenbark IV, Griffen, and Noah Robertson, and her granddaughter, Kelsey Carpenter. She is also survived by her brother, Ben Alford (Marcia), and her sister, Cathy Duncan. Additionally, she leaves behind many beloved cousins, as well as nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews who affectionately called her "Aunt Marge."

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Millbrook United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.

A service will be held in the sanctuary of Millbrook United Methodist Church, located at 1712 East Millbrook Road, Raleigh, NC 27609, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 2 p.m. A committal service will follow at the church columbarium, with a reception afterward.

The service will be live-streamed and available on the Millbrook United Methodist Church’s YouTube page at https://www.youtube.com/@MillbrookUMC_Raleigh

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, nurse aides, and the entire team at WakeMed's STICU, as well as the doctors at WakeMed's MICU. They would also like to thank the compassionate staff at Hospice House of Transitions LifeCare for their kindness and exceptional care.