Margaret Joins' Obituary
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the passing of a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, and cherished friend, Margaret Belle Joins. She passed away at the age of 95 on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a beacon of warmth, kindness, and unwavering love throughout her remarkable life. Margaret touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her, leaving an indelible mark of grace and compassion.
Margaret was born on July 12, 1928, in Commerce Texas, the daughter of Hinton Robert Cunnigham and Opal Allie Cunnigham. Her role as one of five children enriched her understanding of the importance of kinship, and she passed on this appreciation to her own family. She was a devoted daughter to her parents and a doting sister to her brother JC Cunningham and sisters Ruby Barbee, Louise Spurlin, and Evelyn Walters all of whom preceded her in death.
Margaret Belle Joins married her soulmate Walter Lamon Joins Sr. at the age of 16 and they shared a love story that spanned seven decades and blessed them with three sons. Their marriage was a testament to commitment, understanding, and the enduring power of love. Together, they weathered life's storms and celebrated its joys, creating a tapestry of memories that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who knew them. She now reunites with her beloved husband of 71 years, Walter, in eternal rest.
A devoted mother, Margaret adored her sons Walter Lamon Joins Jr, Gerald Wayne Joins, and Michael Eugene Joins, they were “her boys” as she often referred to them. She cherished her children and showered them with boundless love and infinite patience and said they were her greatest accomplishment in life was raising them. The passing of Michael Eugene Joins left an indelible mark on Margaret’s heart. Despite the pain of loss, she carried on his memory with grace and strength, finding solace in the love and support of her remaining family. Her home was a haven of warmth, filled with laughter, and the comforting aroma of her signature dishes.
Margaret’s legacy is not only reflected in her role as a mother but also as a doting grandmother. In 1981 her granddaughter Ashley Renae Bott was born, daughter of Gerald Wayne Joins and the late Rosalind Joins. Her eyes would light up with joy at the sound of her granddaughter’s laughter, and she reveled in the shared moments of play, exploration, and growth. Her wisdom, gained through the rich tapestry of her own experiences, was generously shared with each successive generation. She became a great-grandmother in 2007 when Presley Simpson was born, the first stop on the way home from the hospital from Presley’s birth would be at “Nanny’s House”. In 2018 Ashley married Barrett Bott and Margaret lovingly embraced her role as “step-great grandmother” to Brooke Bott, Braeden Bott, and Brynleigh Bott. Margaret’s nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, as she
embraced all who crossed her threshold, earning her the title of "Nanny Joins" to many.
A woman of faith, Margaret found solace and strength in her spiritual beliefs. Her unwavering devotion was a guiding light that inspired those around her to live with purpose, kindness, and a profound sense of gratitude. Her life was a testament to the values she held dear – love, compassion, and the importance of family.
In her leisure time, Margaret found joy in simple pleasures –sewing, savoring a good book, and creating numerous crochet masterpieces. Her creativity and zest for life were contagious, leaving a lasting impression on all who shared these moments with her. She was a passionate cook and thoroughly enjoyed baking, she was always ready to make something the very moment you walked into her home, even if you weren’t hungry, you soon would be enjoying something she had made just for you.
The memory of Margaret will be forever cherished, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. As we mourn her physical absence, let us celebrate a life well-lived, a love that transcends time, and the reunion with those who went before her. May she find eternal peace in the arms of her beloved husband Walter once again. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love that she so generously gave throughout her remarkable life. Margaret Belle Joins is survived by her sons Walter Lamon Joins Jr. and Gerald Wayne Joins of Dallas, Texas. Her grandchildren Jeff Corlett of Dallas, Ashley and Barrett Bott of Colleyville, and great-grandchildren Presley Simpson, Brooke Bott, Braeden Bott, and Brynleigh Bott. Nieces and nephews Linda Glazner, Jerry Cunningham, Junior Cunningham, Larry Cunningham, Gene Wasson, Kenneth Wasson, Sam Ivey, and Calvin Walters. Though she may no longer walk beside us, her spirit lives on in the memories we hold dear and the values she instilled in us. As we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate the vibrant and fulfilling life she led.
A family visitation will be held at Restland Dallas on Thursday, December 28, 2023, from 6-8 PM. A funeral service to honor and celebrate Margaret’s life will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023, at 9:00 AM at the Wildwood Chapel at Restland Dallas.
May Margaret Belle Joins rest in eternal peace, and may her memory continue to inspire and comfort us all.
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