Margaret Louise Rowley, 94, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, May 8, 2017 in Pensacola, FL. She was born on June 13, 1922 to James Thomas Shipman and Lola Mae (Loftin) Shipman in DeFuniak Springs, FL. Margaret lived in DeFuniak Springs, FL and Geneva, AL but spent most of her life in Pensacola.

Preceding her in death were husbands; Edward B. Villar, Sr. and the Honorable Judge William S. "Bubba" Rowley of Pensacola; parents, James Thomas and Lola Mae Loftin Shipman; sisters, Dorothy Agerton, Grace Rowley, Betty Cascone, Nita Engstrom and brothers, Gene Shipman and Ralph Shipman all of Pensacola.

She is survived by her loving and devoted children; daughter, Cathy Villar of Pensacola and son, Ed Villar of Pensacola; her sister, Kay (Dan) Centurione of Atlanta, GA.; brother, Rev. Don (Elvena) Shipman of Dallas, TX; brothers-in-law, Ivan (Minnie) Rowley and Joe Cascone of Pensacola as well as many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. She is also survived by her beloved companion, the little poodle named Toby. Toby loved his "grandmother" with all his heart and would sit on her feet each morning during coffee time.

Margaret lived a full life of love, laughter, excitement and travel. She was the epitome of the Southern Lady. She was a lady of strong moral character, privilege and class as such she always insisted on proper manners and was proper in every way.

Margaret loved to shop and she was the ultimate power-shopper in her day. Shopping of course, was mainly for clothes and all accessories. Margaret was well known for never stepping out of her home unless she was "dressed to the nines." She had an amazing shoe collection that was second-to-none and a wardrobe that would be the envy of anyone with the finest tastes and matching budget. Her glamour was complimented everywhere she went. People would often comment "you must be going somewhere special". Little did they know, this was her standard. She was a gorgeous lady and in her younger days, she was often compared to Hollywood superstar, Maureen O'Hara. In spite of it all, Margaret attributed all of her blessing to the glory of our Lord.

Margaret was involved in several social organizations but her favorite was Krewe of Lafitte (KOL). Margaret and Bubba never missed an event that presented an opportunity to show off her newest custom made gown…a new one for each ball.

Bubba and Margaret travelled extensively throughout the State of Florida to attend Judges' conventions wherever and as many times per year that they occurred. Consequently, her knowledge of Florida was extensive and she could instantly recall landmarks and equally quick to give "directions!" Although Florida was home, they relished traveling to Europe, Asia, Canada, Mexico and Caribbean as well as extensively throughout the United States.

Margaret's favorite time of year was Christmas, and she was well known for her elaborate Christmas Eve parties to which she would open her home to family and friends. Each Christmas Eve she would prepare veritable feasts that included all manner of hor d'oeuvres and desserts. Most every dish served was scratch made and served in the finest tableware complete with candlelight.

She had a big and generous heart, so, every invited guest would be the recipient of a specially chosen Christmas gift. Margaret would shop for months leading up to Christmas, then personally wrap each gift. It was not unusual for her to give more than one hundred gifts to family and friends. Many a great time was had in the Rowley home during Christmas where "I'll be home for Christmas" was met with open arms of love.

Ever the entertainer, Margaret and Bubba would host parties at their Perdido Key summer home, all summer long. As a rule, they would "move" to the beach house on Memorial Day weekend and return to home after Labor Day. Life was filled with boating, fishing, cookouts and of course, her special homemade ice cream. She would always "surprise" her guests with the fruit flavor of the day! The cottage was usually full all weekend with family and friends. We all cherish the memories made on Perdido Key.

Her love of family was a testament to all who knew her. She was so devoted to the cohesiveness of her immediate family that when Governor Ruben Askew asked Bubba to run for Governor, it was Margaret who chose her family over Tallahassee, although she would have been a spectacularly elegant "first lady" of Florida!

Margaret's love of the Lord and her deep faith in Him was evidenced by unconditional love and generosity. If anyone was in need, she would help without question or hesitation. She often bought groceries and clothes for the needy, and even household appliances from time to time.

She has attended The Cathedral of Sacred Heart in Pensacola since 1969. She attended Mass regularly until declining health made it impossible to attend. However, she continued to generously support the Church until her death. Her devotion to the Catholic faith and her love for the mass was undeniable. She loved the Lord and quoted scripture until the very end of her life.

Visitation will be held 5:00pm-7:00pm Friday, May 12, 2017 at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel. A Celebration of Life service will be held 1:00pm Saturday, May 13, 2017 at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, 2276 Airport Blvd., Pensacola, FL 32504, officiated by her loving brother, Rev. Don Shipman. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Mausoleum off of 12th Ave., Pensacola.

Cathy and Ed would like to thank all of her physicians, caregivers and Covenant Care for their care and compassion. A special thanks to her niece and husband, Mac and Cindy (Engstrom) McCraney for years of interim devoted and loving care for our Mother.