Margaret Jane Whitehill

Margaret Jane Whitehill of Royal Oak, MI. passed away December 14, 2024. She was born on January 8, 1930, to the late George and Sylvia Brown in Ryburgh, Norfolk, England. Her siblings included Beryl, Gordon, Derick, and Alan.

Common for the time, Margaret finished school at 14 years old. She entered domestic service and moved away from home.

Margaret married her first husband Wallace (Wally) Betts on November 14, 1951. They remained married until his death on February 29, 1955. In need of a change, she boldly set sail for America in September 1957 aboard the RMS Scythia. On board, she won a contest for “Best Hat”. Margaret was employed by a prominent family in Grosse Point Farms, MI, for domestic service as a housemaid, which she thoroughly enjoyed until she remarried.

Margaret married Arthur (Art) Cumming Whitehill on June 9, 1962. They remained married until his death March 28th, 2009. They welcomed their son, Arthur Whitehill, on July 3rd, 1964. He predeceased them on June 22, 2006.

Margaret worked for the Royal Oak Schools (Oakridge Elementary) for 30+ years as a lunch monitor. She enjoyed being around children and made many friends of all ages. She retired at the age of 80. Amongst her many activities she especially enjoyed going out with her British Club, gardening, baking, knitting, and spending time with her grandchildren. And of course, she loved to keep current with news about The Royal Family, and especially loved Princess Diana and Queen Elizabeth.

Margaret is survived by her grandson Kyran Whitehill of Royal Oak, MI; and daughter-in-law and granddaughter, Jill and Isabella Whitehill of Royal Oak, MI. Margaret, and her family wish to thank the good friends who have been supportive and created such warm memories throughout her lifetime. As Margaret regularly said, “I’ve lived a good life”.