Margaret passed away peacefully 9 December 2019, at 94 years of age. Predeceased by her husband Gerard, infant children, and daughter Louise Kearney. Also, by sisters Mary Darcy, Betty Dunphy (Joseph deceased), Barbara Crosbie; brothers Tom Armstrong (Marie deceased), Frank (Spank) Armstrong (Shirley deceased). She leaves with loving memories daughter Anna Kearney Guigné, son-in-law Jacques Guigné; sons Francis (Frank) Kearney (Ruth); Christopher Kearney; Grandchildren Françoise Guigné (Andre Pant), Simone Lilly (Bruce), Ashley Kearney Pratt (Jamie), Ryan Kearney; great grandchildren Éric and Loïc Pant; Raya and Mila Lilly; Avery, Owen and Adeline Pratt, brothers-in-law Jim Darcy, Roger Crosbie and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
On February 6, 1925, Margaret was the first baby girl born at St. Clare’s hospital. She attended Mercy Convent School and in 1944 she joined the Royal Canadian Navy, travelling to Cornwallis and Ottawa. Upon her return to Newfoundland in 1948 she married Gerry Kearney. She often regaled her family with stories of her work as a singer for the troops and as a stenographer. In the late 1960s, she seized an opportunity to do a radio commentary for the CBC, this eventually led Margaret to develop an extensive and diverse career as a journalist and broadcaster. As a freelance writer Margaret regularly contributed articles to The Daily News, the Evening Telegram and Decks Awash. As a freelance journalist she was a regular contributor to Peter Gzowski’s CBC “Morningside” show. In the early 1970s, while working with the province’s Department of Consumer Affairs, she initiated Box 999, a consumer advocacy column. Margaret is also remembered for developing the VOCM children’s program “Nan-Nan Mags” and a four-part series titled Radio 65, which broadcast live on-air on CBC in the 1980s. As an octogenarian, Margaret appeared as a local commentator for CBC Here and Now, in “Marg’s Corner.” There she would talk about important issues facing her fellow senior citizens.
Margaret’s natural ability to connect with people and radio experience led her to work for the provincial Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation between 1978 and 1992. Margaret became “the voice of our province in international media,” working tirelessly to influence travel writers and broadcasters to showcase Newfoundland and Labrador as one of the most breathtaking places to visit. During this time, she was also instrumental in setting up standards for the province’s Bed and Breakfast industry. Margaret was honoured by the province for her accomplishments, receiving the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador in 2014.
Margaret was photographer, talented quiltmaker, devout volunteer and regular reader at St. Pius X masses. She will be fondly remembered for her wonderful stories and colourful expressions, and for her party piece “The Second Minuet.”
The family wishes to express a special thank you to Dr. O’Shea, Pam Malloy, Jennifer McGrath, and all the staff at Kenny’s Pond for their care and compassion especially in these last few months.
In Marg’s own words, “We’re some glad your mother had you!”
Visitation will be held at Carnell’s Funeral Home, 329 Freshwater Road on 11 and 12 of December from 2:00 p.m. to 4: 00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The funeral service is to be held at St. Pius X Church on Friday 13 December, at 9:30 a.m. A private interment will be held at a later date. Flowers are gratefully accepted or in lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Gathering Place.
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Margaret Kearney Armstrong February 6 1925 to December 9 2019..
Death notice for the town of: St-John’s, Province: T-N