Margaret Ann Grace

Margaret “Maggie” Grace, passed peacefully on April 12, 2025, at her home on Marco Island, Florida. Maggie is survived by her husband Ralph Dove, daughters Melissa (Thomas) and Laura, grandchildren Madeline and Maxwell, her sister Mary (Thomas), nieces Abbey (Michael) and Keely (Gabe) and great niece and nephews Maya, Derrick and Jason, and her beloved dog, Lily. Maggie was preceded in death by her parents Lloyd and Vivian and her brother David.

Maggie met the love of her life in 1981, and they were married for 42 years at the time of her passing. Together, Maggie and Ralph raised their family and resided in West Des Moines until their retirement when they moved to their personal slice of “paradise” on Marco Island, Florida. Maggie enjoyed spending time with family and especially loved spending time with her grandchildren, Maddie and Max. Her kindness, infectious smile, compassion and sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Maggie was a dedicated educator and served as a teacher, social worker and supervisor of social workers and special education technology for Heartland Area Education Agency. As a lifelong learner, Maggie earned two Masters Degrees and instilled a love of learning in her children and grandchildren.

In retirement Maggie focused on her love of gardening, watching sunsets, walking the beach, photography and creating beautiful scrap books. Maggie was also a true friend and she enjoyed annual vacations and adventures with her dear friends from college.

Maggie attended Covenant Presbyterian Church in West Des Moines, Iowa. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled this summer in West Des Moines. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to: Alzheimer’s Association (https://donorservices.alz.org).