Margaret is remembered as a dedicated wife, mother, aunt, and friend whose warmth and generosity touched all who knew her. Her life was filled with many challenges and losses that she faced bravely. She loved cooking, decorating, traveling to see wildflowers (especially bluebonnets) and entertaining friends. Her wit and humor brought smiles to many gatherings.
Margaret was born in Tahoka, TX on February 18, 1948, to Mary Lois and Roy Lee “Bo” Cruce. After her parents’ deaths, she and her sister lived with their maternal grandparents Ludie and Elmer Sproles. She graduated from Tahoka High School and attended Dallas Fashion Merchandising College. During her college years, she met and married Don Barber, an audit executive with JCPenney, in October 1967. Don Barber passed away on February 11, 1975, after a lengthy battle with Cystic Fibrosis.
In April 1979, Margaret married Ken Beebe; together, they were active members of Vandelia Church of Christ, enjoyed supporting Texas Tech athletic events, and frequently hosted friends and family. Ken Beebe passed away in September 2017 after 38 years of marriage.
Margaret began her over 40-year career at Merrill Lynch in the Lubbock office in 1979. She was awarded the Employee of the Year in the mid South region in 2003 and retired in 2021.
After retirement, Margaret was blessed with a special friendship with Will Gray. Will was a great friend and life partner to Margaret up until his passing in January 2024. She became a loved member of Will’s family during their time together. More recently, Margaret found happiness after meeting and committing to a relationship with Jerry Hall. They were looking towards the future together at the time of her untimely death.
Margaret is survived by her sons, Brad Beebe, and Kyle Beebe; her sister, Elda Railey (Alan); nephew, Tate Railey (Lindsey); and their children Camden, Shepherd, Reese, and Molly. Also, she will be missed by her many friends and extended family.
Funeral services will take place at 10:00 am Friday, October 31, 2025, at Monterey Church of Christ in Lubbock, followed by graveside services at 11:00 am at Resthaven, Lubbock. Visitation will be held from 4-7 pm on Thursday, Oct 30th at Resthaven.
If you prefer to send a memorial gift in lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Margaret’s generous spirit by giving to Monterey Church of Christ Acts 4 Fund. The fund is a ministry based on Acts 4 that shares resources with those experiencing hardship. Donations are accepted online by going to Give and designating Acts 4 in the fund dropdown box.
