Obituary of Margaret A. McPherson

Our beloved mother, Margaret McPherson, 86, of Waldwick, NJ, passed away peacefully in her home on April 3, 2020. Born on December 16, 1933 in Rutherglen, Scotland, she was the second youngest of eight children born to John and Annie O’Hanlon. She met her charming husband Sam at a local dance, and they married on July 2, 1958 in Rutherglen, and had two children, Sam and Fiona. The family lived in London, England for several years, before emigrating to the United States in 1967. Although this was meant to be a temporary move, the McPhersons grew to love their life in America and lived happily in Oradell, NJ for over thirty years. After her husband’s death in 2000, Margaret moved to Tamaron, in Waldwick, NJ, where she became a much loved and active member of the community, enjoying parties and games of chance, especially when she was the winner! Margaret is survived by her loving family, including her son, Sam McPherson, and his wife Libby Schmais of Jersey City, NJ; her daughter, Fiona Moran and her husband, Michael Moran, of Londonderry, NH; her treasured one and only granddaughter, Megan Moran of Londonderry, NH; her youngest brother, Bill O’Hanlon of East Kilbride, Scotland; and many beloved nieces and nephews. Margaret was predeceased by her beloved husband, Sam McPherson; her cherished sisters, May, Betty, and Helen, and her dear brothers, Eddie, John and Jimmy. Margaret was an accomplished highland dancer and very proud of her Scottish heritage. She was known for her excellent baking and enjoyed sharing her fruit cake, apple-pear pie and shortbread with many of her friends. Margaret was an esteemed parishioner at the Church of the Nativity in Midland Park, NJ, and a member of the Rosary Society. She was immensely proud of her family, and her grand-daughter Megan was the apple of her eye. Margaret was an incredibly warm and generous woman and we are all better for having known her. All Services for Margaret will be private. For Margaret's extended family of the Tamaron neighborhood are asked to step outside their homes at 1 :00 PM on Monday, April 6, 2020 to pay tribute to Margaret as the funeral procession passes by. Please be mindful of social distancing.