Margaret McGrady, 97, died peacefully on Jan. 6, 2023, at her home in Gillespie, Ill. She was born in Farina on Jan. 24, 1925, to Charles and Agnes (Crooker) Bee.

Margaret grew up in Alma. She attended the University of Illinois, where she studied piano and voice. As a freshman, she was the accompanist for the U of I Mens’ Glee Club. It was at U of I that she met Denis McGrady, her husband of 63 years. They were married on April 26, 1944, and settled in Gillespie, where they raised their nine children. Margaret shared her considerable musical talents with her community. She was the organist and choir director at the Gillespie United Methodist Church and accompanied Gillespie High School music students at contest. She was an active member of the Canna Annas, a civic women’s group, and sang in their annual Follies productions. She was proud of her heritage and community, being one of the founders of the Macoupin County chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Margaret transformed her yard into a welcoming setting. Margaret and Denis loved traveling. She also spent many hours needlepointing while watching her beloved Cardinals.

She is survived by her children, Denis McGrady, Jr., Connie (Ken) Page, Michal (Brian) McPheters, Doug (Patty) McGrady, Charlie McGrady, Barbara (Rich) Mathenia, Margaret (Mark) Enlow, Murray (Becky) McGrady, Brian (Joyce) McGrady; 22 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

A private family gathering will be held later.

Memorials may be made to the Partnership for Educational Excellence at Gillespie High School. Condolences may be left online at http://www.kravanyafuneral.com. Kravanya Funeral Home in Gillespie is in charge of arrangements.