Marguerite Ireland, 86, a lifelong resident of Unadilla, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Aug. 7, 2022, at Cooperstown Center.
She was born June 3, 1936 in Sidney, to Wallace H. and Shirley (Dalton) Ireland. She was predeceased by her brothers Wallace Ireland and James Ireland, and is survived by her nephew Ronald Ireland of Florida, and nieces Valerie McCain, Bainbridge, Nadine Fineout, Missouri, Karen Ireland Kantor, Unadilla, Cheryl Liberty, Bainbridge, Dorene Ireland, Unadilla, and also several cousins.
Marguerite graduated from SUNY Oneonta and received her master’s degree from SUNY Geneseo. She become a school librarian for the Vestal School District. She spent her holidays and summers relaxing at Ireland Farms, but she was also an adventurous woman and spent part of her school breaks exploring the world. Having visited dozens of countries, she had many amusing tales to tell and an impressive collection of photos and mementos to share.
She loved puzzles and board games and gave no quarter to opponents of any age, especially at Scrabble. She spent years researching her maternal and paternal ancestors and carefully documented what she learned in dozens of files, properly cross-referenced and including copies and photos of primary sources.
As a lifelong educator, Marguerite believed strongly in the power of higher education and was very proud to establish the Ireland Farms Scholarship for women studying science at SUNY Oneonta. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to the scholarship fund at the College at Oneonta Foundation, Division of College Advancement, 308 Netzer Administration Building, 108 Ravine Parkway, Oneonta, NY 13820.
Memorial services will not be held at this time. Online condolences may be made at wmaddenfh.com. Arrangements by the Westcott-Madden Funeral Home, 123 Main Street, Unadilla.
