Margaret Aretha Reckley was born on March 21, 1930. She was a beloved wife, married to her husband Thomas William Reckley for 74 years. She was a mother of nine children, 5 boys and 4 girls. Margaret Aretha was also adorned with the title of “Grandmother”, “Great Grandmother”, “Aunt”, as well as being a “sister” to 10 of her own siblings. She had so much room in her heart she would often love, adopt and be a “mother” to many others that wanted to be part of the fold.
Margaret Aretha was born on a tobacco farm in Raywick, Kentucky. Her father Alfred, also grew peach trees, apple trees, and vegetables that she said she would pick straight out of the ground and eat them. That is probably why she was always so healthy. She often told the story of how she would climb up the tallest apple tree and eat apples until she had a belly ache. She played on the farm, rode her “daddy’s” horses and shared chores with her sisters. Her mother Abigail Mary gave birth to all 11 children there in the farmhouse. She shared how many times the doctor barely made it across the river to get to the farmhouse in time to deliver the babies. Margaret Aretha also shared about the many times she played in the river despite not knowing how to swim. She said her sister had to jump in and save her once because her sister spotted a deadly water moccasin snake that was weaving through the water, swimming toward her. Thus, Margaret Aretha definitely had an aversion to snakes due to that frightening memory. Nonetheless, she spent many hours playing on the riverbank with her many brothers and sisters. She attended St. Joseph Elementary school and St. Charles High School. Margaret Aretha was a straight A student. She sang in the church choir, and enjoyed performing and dancing in her school plays. She enjoyed school and often spoke fondly of her formative years as well as her experiences in high school.
Margaret Aretha attended some college where she acquired office skills such as “shorthand” which in the olden days was important for taking dictation from your boss. She was also an avid typist with impeccable secretarial skills. When she became a housewife and started raising children, she also became an amazing caretaker with expertise in caring for babies. She completed certification in childcare and development, and opened a rewarding career as a daycare owner and operator. She took great pride in her work. She quickly became popular and was known as the best childcare center in the San Fernando Valley. She was not only successful, she absolutely loved her job.
Besides her passion in caring for children, Margaret Aretha’s favorite things to do were, to go for long walks, landscaping, gardening and enjoying flowers, building and designing (she designed and renovated her own home), she loved dancing, dressing up in different outfits everyday, shopping and visiting with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She developed and took time to nurture all of her relationships including nurturing those relationships with her children’s spouses and friends.
Margaret Aretha was a devoted Catholic. She taught all of her children how to pray and she showed by example. She always took alone time with the Lord and would light candles and pray. Because of this her children are faithful, and strong believers in prayer. She never forgot a birthday and was diligent about sending out her cards and also requested special intention masses for her loved ones.
Margaret Aretha always radiated with energy and enthusiasm. Her presence would light up any room that she entered and ignited even more when her beloved grandchildren stepped in. With her warm and charming personality, she effortlessly captivated everyone around her. Her sense of humor and quick wit always brought joy and laughter to every interaction. She was truly a lively, vivacious, and unforgettable presence in the lives of her loved ones.
As we reflect on the life of this exceptional lady, we are reminded of the immense strength and incredible resilience that she possessed. Throughout the years, she faced life's challenges head-on, never wavering in her commitment to her family and always providing unwavering support. She was the cornerstone that held her family together through thick and thin, Margaret Aretha was the beacon of light that guided them through stormy times.
To her children, she was a constant source of love and guidance. Through her nurturing spirit, she instilled in them the values of empathy, compassion, and perseverance. She celebrated their successes, wiped away their tears, and cheered them on every step of the way. Her unconditional love formed the foundation upon which they have built their lives, and her legacy will forever inspire them to be the best versions of themselves.
But her love extended far beyond her immediate family. As a grandmother, her affection knew no bounds. She embraced the role with open arms, showering her grandchildren with endless love, warmth, and laughter. Their fondest memories are filled with moments spent playing games, playing in her daycare and sharing stories. She nurtured their dreams, encouraged their passions, and taught them the importance of cherishing family bonds.
Her life was a testament to the power of commitment and devotion. She demonstrated what it truly means to walk the journey of marriage hand-in-hand, supporting her partner through the highs and lows of life. She celebrated 74 (almost 75) years of wedded bliss with her loving spouse Thomas, proving that true love endures and grows stronger with time. Her unwavering dedication to her spouse serves as an inspiration to us all.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief today, let us take solace in the memories we have shared with this incredible woman. Let us honor her by carrying forward the lessons she imparted to us, by embracing the values she held dear, and by cherishing those we hold closest to our hearts. May her spirit forever reside within each of us, reminding us to live a life of love, compassion, and selflessness.
As we say our final goodbyes, let us remember her not with sadness, but with gratitude for the privilege of having known her. She leaves behind a legacy that will endure through generations to come. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory forever be a blessing to us all.
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