Margaret Ann Dutch

Margaret lived her life guided by a deep belief in the power of learning, service, and compassion. Born in Taunton, MA to Mary (Tallent) Powers and the late Robert Powers, she grew up in a home that valued education and community—principles she carried into every corner of her life.

A lifelong learner, Margaret pursued education not simply as an achievement but as an exploration of the world and a way to better understand others. She graduated from Coyle-Cassidy High School and went on to earn degrees in Music Education from Emmanuel College, Special Education from the University of New Orleans, and ultimately a Doctorate in Education from Northeastern University. Each step reflected her desire to grow, to question, and to use her knowledge in service of others.

Margaret’s calling as an educator was shaped by her belief that every child deserves dignity, opportunity, and a champion in their corner. She began her career teaching English in Berwick, Louisiana, but it was in special education—her true passion—that she found her life’s work. Over her years in the Brockton Public Schools, she became a trusted teacher, mentor, and leader, eventually serving as a special education team facilitator. Her leadership continued as Director of Special Education at Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical School and later as Principal of South Shore Vocational Technical School. Margaret delighted in mentoring aspiring educators and teaching future teachers, believing deeply that strong, compassionate educators change lives.

Her devotion to others reached far beyond the walls of any school building. Grounded in her faith and a quiet but steadfast commitment to service, Margaret dedicated herself to the work of the Society of Saint Vincent dePaul for many years. She not only served as an active member at St. Jude the Apostle Parish in Taunton and Corpus Christi Parish in Sandwich, but also embraced wider leadership roles—serving as President of the Cape and Islands district of the Society of St. Vincent dePaul and as Secretary for the Fall River Diocese Society of St. Vincent dePaul. In these roles, she worked tirelessly to uplift vulnerable families, advocate for those in need, and strengthen the Society’s mission across the region. Her compassion, organizational skill, and gentle insistence on treating every person with dignity made her a respected and beloved leader.

At the heart of everything was her family. Margaret married her husband, Robert, in 1982, and together they built a life defined by love, partnership, and adventure—from their years in New Orleans to raising a family in Taunton and finally settling in Bourne. She cherished her roles as mother and Nana, finding profound joy in the everyday moments with her sons and grandchildren. Her grandchildren—Noah, Penelope, and August—were the lights of her later years. She carried an enduring love for her son Cullan, with whom she is now reunited.

Margaret will be remembered for her wisdom, humor, resilience, and the quiet grace with which she faced life’s challenges. She leaves behind a legacy of lives touched, students uplifted, and communities strengthened.

Margaret is survived by her husband, Robert; her sons Brendan and his wife Haidee of Milton, MA, and Sean and his wife Megan of Sandwich, MA; her beloved grandchildren; and her mother, Mary (Tallent) Powers.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Society of Saint Vincent dePaul , Cape and Islands District, https://www.svdpcapecod.com

Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, December 3rd from 4:00PM to 7:00PM at Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, 154 MA-6A, Sandwich, MA. A Funeral Mass will follow on Thursday, December 4th at 11:00AM at Corpus Christi Parish, 324 Quaker Meetinghouse Rd, East Sandwich, MA. Burial will take place at a later date.