Our beloved mother, Margaret (Maggie) Peery McMain passed away on April 25, 2014. She was born August 10, 1919, in Salt Lake City. She was the daughter of Julina Clarissa Smith and Joseph Stras Peery. Maggie was the fifth of nine children. She graduated from the Univ. of Utah with a BS degree and received a graduate degree from the first graduating class of Social Work at the Univ. of Utah. She worked in family and child welfare for many years. Maggie married William A. McMain in September 1942 in New York City. She and Bill lived in many cities while Bill served in the Army, furthering his medical specialty in pediatrics. They made their home in Salt Lake City. Maggie and Bill were the parents of four daughters who were the focus and joy of their lives. Maggie belonged to many organizations including Chi Omega Sorority, Salt Lake Junior League, and many gardening groups. She served on the board for the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Women's Legislative Council, and the Hansen Planetarium. Maggie was interested in politics throughout her life and was proud to be a lifetime Democrat. She was candid, compassionate, optimistic, strong spirited, and a life-long learner. She was a competitive bridge player and played bridge just a few days prior to her passing. Maggie was always interested in flowers and gardening and became a Master Flower Show Judge. Her pride and joy was her stunning garden room, full of beautiful bougainvillea trees, palms, home grown geraniums, amaryllis and daffodils. Her home was a gathering place for friends and family. She was a true Matriarch, making an effort to have frequent family dinners with her children and grandchildren. She was a wonderful cook and entertainer, who loved setting elegant tables with her gorgeous flowers as center pieces. Maggie's sense of family was remarkable; always displaying great love, interest, and loyalty to her husband, siblings, friends, and especially to her daughters, sons-in-laws, grandchildren and great grand children. They all feel a tremendous family bond because of her efforts. Her daughters lunched with her once a week and she relished every moment with them. Maggie was our anchor, wise instructor, a generous and lovely mother. Her daughters and their families adored her beyond measure. Maggie is survived by her brother Paul, her devoted daughters: Kristen Merideth Oaks (Elder Dallin H.); Margot Dixon (Bryce); Katherine Park (Val-deceased); Amanda Holbrook (Stephen); 11 grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. Oh Mother Dear, how we love you with our whole hearts and will miss you beyond expression. God be with you till we meet again. At Maggie's request, there will be no funeral, only a family graveside service. Donations may be made to any charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.
