1937 – 2023

(Margaret) Lee Hargreaves (nee Williams) passed away quietly at home January 26, 2023. Lee was born in 1937 in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. She was a highly decorated Senior Girl Scout, and a member of her High School Art Club and Debaters Club, and played the bassoon in the band. After Graduating in 1955, Lee studied at Watts Hospital School of Nursing and the Carolina School of Commerce. She Joined the United States Air Force and was Honorably discharged as an Airman Second Class in 1961.
After marrying Henry (Hank) Allen Hargreaves Jr. in 1961, Lee moved to Saskatchewan and eventually Edmonton. Always a talented artist and Creator, she became the first Craft Editor for the Edmonton Journal, and her regular column featured clever at-home makes for school-age children and was enjoyed by readers across the city. She continued her affiliation with Girl Scouts/Girl Guides, and oversaw the Crafts badges of Countless Brownies. She was an ardent historian and read at the British Library, compiling a history of toys and play, knowledge she put to work in launching two toy stores in Edmonton. Moving to Claresholm in 1998, Lee turned her creative energies to her work with the Museum Board, the Claresholm Fair, and St. John’s Anglican’s annual Festival of Trees. She remained a popular figure in dog breeding and training circles throughout her life, and her dogs were with her until the end.
Predeceased by her loving husband of 56 years, Hank (2017), and her only son Henry Allen Hargreaves lll (Hal, 1996). She was lovingly tended by her daughter Alyson Hargreaves and is also survived by daughter Heather Barnum (Jeff) of New York, NY; grandchildren Daniel of Chesapeake, VA, Rebecca of Montreal, QC, and Sophie of New York, NY; and godchildren Patricia and Michael.
A Memorial Service will be held later this year in Calgary. Memorial donations are welcome at the American Diabetes Association or a charity of one’s choice.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting Leydens.com.