In Memory: Margaret Mitchell Barry Cheney (“Margie”), Age 102

Margaret Mitchell Barry Cheney (“Margie”) passed away peacefully at home on November 19, 2024 at the age of 102. She was born in Detroit, Michigan, and at a young age, after her mother’s death, moved with her family to Irvington, NY. She attended The Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, NY, and subsequently Vassar College.

She spent many summers back in Michigan with her family in Harbor Point and Cadillac. It was in Cadillac that she felt most comfortable, and found her home away from home.

While living and working in New York City, she met William Cheney (“Bud”), a young Naval Officer, and they were married in St. Patrick’s Cathedral in December, 1944. Margie moved around with Bud and the Navy for a couple of years before settling in New Rochelle, and then Rye, New York, to raise three daughters. They then moved to Greenwich, CT, where they lived for several years, eventually returning to Rye to The Osborn.

Margie was a long standing  member of the Rye Garden Club, where many of her long-lasting friendships were made. She was an active volunteer and supporter of the Greenwich Garden Education Center (now the Greenwich Botanical Center). She was for many years an active member of both the Apawamis Club and the American Yacht Club. She was also a member of the National Society of Colonial Dames.

Margie was an avid gardener, NYTimes crossword puzzler, jigsaw puzzler, reader, seamstress, golfer, and above all, mother. She loved organizing neighborhood gatherings, and the Cheney Easter Egg hunts were always a huge success. Her happiest times were spent creating any one of her many, many gardens, large and small, and helping her daughters do the same. She was active for several years in the creation of the Betty Neagle garden at The Osborn, in honor of her long time friend, Betty Neagle. Her artistic vision, her genuine warmth and her ready, welcoming smile will be missed by everyone.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bud Cheney, and her sister Elizabeth Mitchell Barry Bacon. She is survived by her daughters Betsy Parker of Riverside, CT, Katie Creighton of Walnut Creek, CA, and Ginnie Cheney of Cos Cob, CT. She is also survived by grandchildren Marney Parker of San Francisco, CA and William Creighton of Northville, MI as well as seven nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at a future date. In her memory, contributions may be made to Kids in Crisis, One Salem St., Cos Cob, CT, 06807.