It is with profound sorrow that the family of Margaret Claire McDougal shares the news of her peaceful passing, surrounded by family, following a brief but intense health battle. Margaret was a woman of singular kindness, remembered universally for her beautiful character and radiant spirit. Born in Fresno in 1953 to the late Don and Terry Smith, she dedicated her 72 years to faith, family, and a quiet, steadfast devotion to others.

Margaret's story began and flourished in Fresno. She was a graduate of Fresno High School, and it was during her high school years that fate introduced her to her lifelong love, Tom McDougal. Their high school romance blossomed into a remarkable marriage of 49.5 years, a partnership defined by faith, deep commitment, and enduring affection. Margaret furthered her education, attending Fresno City College and California State University, Fresno.

Together, Margaret and Tom created a home centered on love and faith, raising two devoted sons, Brian (age 42) and Kevin (age 36). Her sons were her pride and joy, and she poured her heart into nurturing their lives. Her deep and abiding Christian faith was a cornerstone of Margaret's life; she and Tom were devoted members of the First Presbyterian Church in Fresno.

To know Margaret was to love her. Friends and family alike recall her the same way: completely kind, sweet beyond description, and a person whose inner and outer beauty was truly exceptional. She lived her life as a beacon of grace, leaving an indelible mark of warmth on everyone she met. No holiday was complete without some of her inimitable cookies and treats, lovingly baked and packed in a tin. Kids recall her meals as always being extra delicious, having the secret ingredient of love.

Margaret is survived by her loving husband, Tom. Son, Brian and his wife Bernadette. Son, Kevin and his partner Jessica. She also leaves behind all of her cherished siblings who will miss her dearly: Ernie and Robin Smith, of Santa Barbara; Bruce Smith of Laguna Hills; David and Kim Smith of Fresno; Donna and David Berte of Springfield, Illinois; Carolyn and Irv Dimont of Fresno; Stephen Cavalleri and Allison Post of Cape Coral Florida; and Janet and Don Erwin of Folsom.

Margaret's beauty, grace, gentle strength, unselfishness and unwavering kindness will be her lasting legacy.

A memorial service to celebrate Margaret's life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Fresno on Saturday, Nov. 1 at 11 a.m. The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Margaret's honor to First Presbyterian Church of Fresno at www.fpcfresno.org