Margareta (Marge) Forster McIlroy

Margareta (Marge) Forster McIlroy, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend to so many, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on July 4, 2021 surrounded by her family. She was pre-deceased by her sister, Ellen Tourner and her parents, Robert and Margarete Forster.  Marge is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Colonel Wilmer L. “Mac” McIlroy, Jr., US Army Retired, and her forever grateful children, Robert McIlroy of Lugoff, SC, Anne Wilson of Columbia, SC and her only grandson Cody McIlroy, five cherished nieces, one nephew and numerous friends who will miss her dearly. 

Born in Siegelsdorf, Germany, on June 1, 1934, Marge married Mac in Germany, at Marge’s hometown church on August 24, 1958.  The church was so packed with German and American friends that people had to congregate outside.  She served as a faithful Army wife throughout Mac’s Army career until Mac’s retirement in 1980 when the family moved to Columbia, SC.  

 Marge loved to entertain and her friends affectionately called her “the hostess with the mostest”.  She found great joy in cooking and caring for her loved ones and friends, and will be remembered fondly for all of the delicious German food and pastries she made and shared with friends and family. 

Marge was also a lifelong animal lover of creatures great and small including family pets, as well as her wild birds and stray cats she loved to feed.  It brought her great joy to feed and love her animals. 

Marge was a member of First Presbyterian Church for many years and more recently joined Northeast Presbyterian Church, although she often said she can worship God from anywhere, and she did it each and every day in the way she cared for others. Those who knew Marge will remember her gleaming smile which was a reflection of her beautiful soul. She will always be our German Princess, dressed to the nines, looking model-ready 24/7, but with the kindest heart to match her exterior beauty.  Words cannot sufficiently express the loss we all feel. Heaven has gained a beautiful Angel. 

Memorials may be made to NE Presbyterian Church or to a charity of your choice.

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