Margaret Augustine McGinnis of Olive Branch, MS, 98, went to be with the Lord on January 23, 2021. She was born in Memphis, TN on April 15, 1922, to Charles D. and Julia Elizabeth Smith McGinnis. She was preceded in death by both of her parents and four brothers: John, Charles D. Jr., Raymond E. “Gene,” and James J. “Poochie” McGinnis. While still a child, Margaret also lost a sister, Elizabeth Clare “Sissy,” who was just a toddler at the time.
Aunt Margaret loved babies and children and is survived by a multitude of nieces and nephews whom she spoiled rotten as children. She is also survived by many great nieces and nephews (and great-great nieces and nephews) who lovingly referred to her as Maugmaug. Not a fan of food that was “too” spicy, she cooked simple meals but made THE very best chili, tuna fish salad, beef stew, and banana nut bread.
After graduating from Memphis Catholic High School, Margaret began working at Lowenstein’s Department store in downtown Memphis, working in the crystal and fine china departments. Later, she worked for Brodnax Jewelers downtown and later at the Southland Mall, Hancock House, and Jaccard’s Jewelers. She finished her career while working for in the Goldsmith’s china department.
Margaret was a communicant at several Catholic parishes in the midsouth area to include Blessed Sacrament, St. Michael, St. John and Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Olive Branch.
Due to concerns regarding COVID-19, a private funeral service for the immediate family will be held at Brantley Funeral Home in Olive Branch at 10:00 am, Thursday, January 28, 2021. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Memphis, TN. The family respectfully requests others to participate via live streaming at: https://www.facebook.com/BrantleyOliveBranch
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Celiac Disease Foundation at celiac.org or to a charity of your choice. The Celiac Disease Foundation invests not only in research but also education and patient advocacy. Having been diagnosed with Celiac Disease late in life, Aunt Margaret struggled with trying to make others understand the dietary restriction of not ingesting gluten in any form.
Condolences may be sent to Karl & Karen Virden of Olive Branch.
