Margarette S. Berrisford, went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, December 28, 2023, in Pensacola, Florida at the age of 105.

She was born on a farm in Wickliffe, KY on May 22, 1918, to Hess and Mame Stephens. After graduating high school in 1936 as salutatorian, she enrolled at Murray State Teaching College, Murray, Kentucky, and later completed her graduate studies at the University of Florida. While in Gainesville, Margarette married the love of her life, Bert Berrisford, in 1956.

Her teaching career began in River Junction, FL where she taught music for four years in public schools. After moving to Pensacola, she taught for nine years at Blount Junior High school. She was offered a summer job at the new Pensacola Junior College, which she accepted, and remained with the institution until her retirement in 1980 with 40 years of service in the field of education.  As Foreign Student Advisor, she mentored students from numerous countries, including Cuba, Vietnam, and Iran. Margarette spent over 20 years as an active volunteer at Sacred Heart Hospital Mother Seton Guild and the Haven of Our Lady of Peace, where she has resided since 2001. At the Haven she helped many family members and visitors by explaining the process of applying for admission into a nursing home.  She was also pianist for the protestant services.

In 1944, Margarette joined First Baptist Church Pensacola where she served her Lord and Savior in various capacities including Baptist Training Union, Choir, and focused prayer groups. An avid traveler, she visited Russia and many other countries throughout Asia, Africa, Europe and South America.

Margarette was blessed with a long and joyous life. Her numerous friends and students loved her as family. She could recall names, dates, and details about everyone. Margarette will be remembered for her strong love and devotion to her Lord and genuine friendship to all. She will be greatly missed.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2024 from 11:00am until the funeral service begins at 12:00pm at Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel, led by Dr. David Snyder, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church Pensacola. Interment will follow at Bayview Memorial Park.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Pensacola Scholarship Fund, 500 N, Palafox Street, Pensacola FL 32501. Floral tributes are also welcome.

A special expression of appreciation is extended to Haven of Our Lady of Peace Nursing Home, especially Janet Suggs, for the loving care given to Margarette.