Margaret Effie DeVries Cole, a beloved figure whose life exemplified dedicated community service and unwavering commitment, passed away on July 28, 2025, at the age of 76 after a courageous battle with cancer. Her passing in Libertyville, Illinois, marks the end of a remarkable journey that began on July 18, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Cole’s legacy, deeply intertwined with the fabric of Antioch, Illinois, leaves a profound impact on all who knew her.
Born as the eldest daughter to a career sailor, Margaret’s formative years were a tapestry of diverse experiences, with residences spanning vibrant cities like Philadelphia, the sunny shores of Key West, Florida, and the tropical paradise of Honolulu, Hawaii. This nomadic upbringing undoubtedly shaped her adaptable and resilient spirit, preparing her for a life of varied contributions. The family eventually found their permanent roots in Antioch, Illinois, in 1963, a community she would come to cherish and significantly influence.
After graduating from Antioch Community High School in 1967, Margaret embarked on a professional path that saw her contribute to several publishing houses, honing her skills and expanding her expertise. Her career culminated in a distinguished 32-year tenure at Abbott Laboratories, a testament to her dedication and diligence, from which she eventually retired, leaving a lasting impression on her colleagues and the institution.
Beyond her professional life, Margaret Effie Cole was a true titan of volunteerism, embodying the spirit of community engagement. Her four decades of service with the Antioch Fire Department, spanning from 1981 to 2021, underscore her profound commitment to public safety and her neighbors. She was also instrumental as a co-founder of the Antioch Community Sailors Dinner, an initiative that brought people together and celebrated local history.
Her involvement extended across a myriad of organizations, each benefiting from her passion and leadership. Margaret held memberships in esteemed groups such as the Antioch American Legion Auxiliary Unit 748, Lakes Region Historical Society, 885 Civic Club, Antioch Junior Woman’s Club, and Antioch Woman’s Club. At the time of her passing, she held the esteemed position of president of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs Illinois 10th District, a role in which she tirelessly advocated for women’s empowerment and community betterment.
Margaret will be particularly remembered as the driving force behind the twice-annual Scrappin’ and Craftin’ Day Away event, a creative and philanthropic endeavor that served as a crucial scholarship fundraiser for the Antioch Junior Woman’s Club. Her benevolent spirit also shone brightly through her volunteer work with the Open Arms Food Pantry in Antioch, where she helped ensure essential resources reached those in need.
She is survived by her loving family, including three sisters, Christine (Kenneth) Smith of Waukegan, Colleen Valentine of Zion, and Dianna (Jack) Baseley of Waukegan, as well as a stepson, Edward Cole of Florida. Her legacy also lives on through her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom were touched by her warmth and wisdom. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the myriad friends who provided invaluable support to Margaret in her final days, particularly Ainsley and Bob Wonderling, April and Bob Andrews, and Carl Leatherberry, whose assistance enabled her to remain comfortably at home for as long as possible. The steadfast aid from members of the Antioch Fire Department was also deeply appreciated.
A visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 1, 2025, at Strang Funeral Home, located at 1055 Main St., Antioch, IL 60002. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Margaret’s life will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Our Lady of the Lakes Parish – St. Peter Catholic Church, 557 Lake St., Antioch, IL 60002. Interment will immediately follow the service at Hillside Cemetery in Antioch. For additional information regarding the services, interested parties are encouraged to call 847-395-4000.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Margaret Effie Cole’s memory may consider making memorial contributions to two organizations close to her heart: the Lakes Region Historical Society, located at 965 Main St. Antioch, IL 60002, or the Open Arms Mission, at 1548 Main St., Antioch, IL 60002. An online guestbook for Margaret is also available for those who wish to sign and share their condolences.
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