If, as it’s said, it takes a thousand voices to tell a single story then Margaret McCluney’s life will go forward through the stories of family and friends. Her tales of growing up in Marion as Margaret Locke during a time when life moved a little slower and neighbor knew neighbor; of life-long trips to Gulf Shores; of her student days at the University of Alabama as a member of Delta Zeta sorority and where she met her husband of 61 years, Joe McCluney; and of the precious time she spent with a growing family of nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren all served to remind those who listened that God had richly blessed her life.

Margaret’s way of touching others not only included her stories but her participation in church and community organizations as well as her passion for Crimson Tide football. As one of the best cooks in Walker County, she shared these gifts with friends and neighbors regularly. Those touched by Margaret will always remember her comforting smile and fun sense of humor that connected her with others.

Margaret died peacefully at her home in Jasper on Monday, Nov. 15, 2010, following an extended illness. She was preceded in death by her father, Judson C. Locke Sr., and mother, Etoile Tucker Locke; brother, Judson C. Locke Jr. and wife Carolyn; brother, Jimmy Locke; and grandson, Alan Lee Griggs Jr.

She is survived by her children, the Rev. Sandra Griggs (Alan) and Joe Alfred McCluney (Laura) of Nashville and Margaret Judson Sayles (John) of Sparks, Nev. Til her final breath she remained close to her sisters, Frances Rumley of York, Gwen Miller of Lillian and Chris Hall of Muscle Shoals and their families.

Faith, family and friends were the touchstones of her life, a life lived, in the truest sense, with an unusual graciousness and a spirit of caring. Her family thanks everyone especially neighbors, friends and the angels of Beacon Hospice who cared for her in these last days. A special thanks to Judy Pierce and Frances Black for their ministry of loving care.

A service of death and resurrection for Margaret McCluney will be held Saturday, Nov. 20, 2010, at 1 p.m. in the sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church, Jasper. The Rev. Tex Ergle will officiate. Visitation will be held on Friday night at First United Methodist Church from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

The family requests memorial gifts be sent to First United Methodist Church, Jasper.