Margaret Dorothy (Foley) Wilbur

It is with deep sorrow and heartfelt remembrance that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Margaret Dorothy Foley Wilbur, who peacefully left us on March 23, 2025, at the age of 100. Margaret, known as Maggie to most, was born on June 5, 1924 to John Joseph and Margaret Susan Foley.

She grew up surrounded by a large, loving family and held dear the memories of her childhood. Maggie was a cherished sister to her siblings Bill, John, Gladys, Mike, and Jim, and she often reflected on the time spent with them, fondly recalling her years at Immaculate Conception and Cathedral School in Seattle. It was there that she formed lasting faith and bonded with the nuns she loved, especially Sister Elvira, whose kindness left a lasting impact on her.

In 1958, Maggie and her beloved husband, Billy Van Wilbur, built a home together and raised nine children. Their 63 years of marriage were a testament to their unwavering dedication to one another. Maggie's faith, which blossomed from a young age, remained a cornerstone of her life. Her devotion to her family and her church were at the heart of everything she did. She volunteered for many years at Holy Family, where all of her children attended school. There, she formed lasting friendships with fellow parents and continued to serve her community with love and grace. Maggie's faith journey also included a memorable pilgrimage to Rome, accompanied by her parish priest and fellow Holy Family parishioners. The trip left her with cherished memories that she held dear for the rest of her life.

Maggie's home was a place where love and hospitality flourished. She and Bill hosted countless holiday meals and family gatherings, always emphasizing the importance of family and faith. She was deeply loved and will be missed by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As time went on and Maggie became housebound, her faith remained strong. At age 97, she continued to attend Mass virtually on her iPad and received the Eucharist from the Eucharistic Minister angels of Holy Family, particularly Carmen, who faithfully ministered to her for over three years.

Maggie was preceded in death by her husband, Billy, her five siblings, her sons Billy and Terry, daughter-in-law Barbara, sons-in-law Dick, Bill, Kelly, and her great-grandson Theodore. She is survived by her daughters Carol, Diana, Peggy, Mary (Kris), Joan (Dave), Jenny (Marc), her son Mark, daughter-in-law Jana, and many loving nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind 30 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, and 9 great-great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

A Funeral Mass will be held in her honor at 11:00 am on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church, 9641 20th Ave SW, Seattle, WA. A viewing will precede the Mass, from 10:00 to 11:00, with a rosary being prayed at 10:30 am. In tribute to Maggie's favorite color, please feel free to wear blue. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Maggie’s favorite charity, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital Impact the lives of St. Jude kids - St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or to Holy Family Parish Ways To Give To Holy Family - Holy Family Church.

Maggie’s legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be forever remembered in our hearts.

Please share memories & photos on the Tribute Wall, located above.

Arrangements Entrusted to Emmick Family Funeral Home of West Seattle