Birth date: Nov 5, 1929 Death date: Dec 2, 2016
Margaret Law Archer died Friday, December 2, 2016 at her home. She was the daughter of the late Hugh M. Law and Beatrice B. Law and the wife of the late Calvin M. Archer. She was the mother of James Michael Archer of Fruitland Par Read Obituary
She gave the warmest, sweetest hugs and I will miss them greatly. -Layla
Margaret was one of the sweetest, thoughtful and uncomplaining people I have ever known. In spite of her painful shoulder she and I went to the Hill and other events with dinner afterward. When she found out I was going to Alaska she gave Micheners book titled Alaska. Susan Williams
On my "to do" list for tomorrow, (Monday), was "See Margaret." We were supposed to get together before Thanksgiving, but I could not free myself up, so I was deeply saddened to read today that she had passed. Margaret and I met fifteen or so years ago when I visited to make suggestions to make her home a bit more accessible as she aged. She was a great planner. Over the years I continued to visit her, and as I got to know her, I was so impressed by all that she had done, but more, by all the people she touched and cared for. She had wonderful stories. She spoke so fondly, and so knowingly about her family and friends that gradually it felt like I knew them. Some-her brother Bob, and her sons Mike and Lewis-I did eventually meet. Her descriptions of them were spot on. She was sweetly interested in my life and my family and friends so much that I think she began to feel she knew them too.
I loved sitting on Margaret's screen porch having coffee or lunch with her. I visit many homes, but none felt as homey to me as Margaret's. We talked easily. We discussed politics, local and national, and tended to be in agreement about most issues. I loved to hear her tell me about upcoming family get togethers. It was clear she planned them so carefully because she wanted everyone to feel welcome and comfortable. Over time Margaret began to seem like a grandparent to me, and she often laughingly called me "one of my boys." I considered a great honor.
The past few years it was difficult to see Margaret have to deal with chronic pain. She admitted it at times got the best of her, but no matter how uncomfortable, her wit was sparkling and her love for humanity inspiring. She needed various caregivers, and it was impressive how well she accepted help, and how well she knew them as individuals. She insisted on keeping her dignity intact, but even when someone let her down, she was gracious because she had a way of seeing into their hearts.
My sympathies to all Margaret's family. She was so proud of all of you, whether you were doing great, or wandering off in a direction that made her worried about you.
She was a grand person.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army, P.O. Box 5307, Gainesville, FL 32627-5307.
