Margaret Dianne (Gardner) Wakefield, the daughter of Archer Campbell and Myrtle Margaret (Cooley) Gardner, was born June 2, 1947, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. She passed away peacefully on December 28, 2020, in Ellington, Missouri at the age of 73. Margaret was united in marriage to Donald Leon “Pete” Wakefield, Sr., on February 15, 1969. Two sons were born to this union, Donald Leon “Donnie”, Jr. and Gregory Alan Wakefield.
Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Pete; her parents, Archer and Myrtle Gardner, two brothers, Bob “Cork” and William “Bill” Gardner; and one niece, LaRhonda Erhardt. She is survived by her two sons, Donnie and wife Felina of Annapolis, Missouri, Gregory and wife Eimee of Strafford, Missouri; five grandchildren, BethAnne Fears and husband Chance of Winona, Missouri, Kyle Wakefield and wife Taylor, of Annapolis, Missouri, Brock Campbell Wakefield, Aiden Wakefield, and Abigail Wakefield; four great-grandchildren, Easton Fears and Hudson Fears, and Tristan Wakefield and Kai Wakefield; sister-in-law Dixie Gardner of Traverse City, Michigan; and a host of very special nieces and nephews.
Margaret was raised in Winona, Missouri, and was part of the Winona High School graduating class of 1965. After graduation, Margaret worked for the Forest Service. Once married, she and Pete moved to Pacific, Missouri while Pete worked for Chrysler. After Donnie was born, they returned to Winona. Margaret then worked for OEO, eventually having to retire from work early due to health issues.
From that moment forward, Margaret devoted her entire life to her husband and family. She raised her boys, attending school functions, many of which included ball games that Pete coached. Once her grandchildren were born, she was able to care for them throughout the day. She spent her days putting three full meals on the table. She took pride in the care of her home. Many days she would finish by walking to the ball field to watch baseball practice with grandkids in tow.
When Margaret wasn’t busy taking care of her family, she kept busy visiting with her lifelong friend, Betty Kile. Most of all her time and attention were given to her family. Margaret was a doting mother, grandmother, and took extreme pride in her family life. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 2, 2021, at Pine Lawn Cemetery, Winona, Missouri with Pastor Steve Voyles officiating under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Winona, Missouri. Memorials may be sent to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com.
