April 6, 1923 –September 22, 2026
Alderson, WV
Margaret Emillie Young Jack, 103, of Alderson, WV, passed away peacefully on Sept. 22, 2026, at the Peyton Hospice House.
Born in Richwood, WV, in 1923, Margaret was the eldest daughter of 13 children born to Charles and Lenora Persinger Young. After graduating from Richwood High School, she moved to Akron, Ohio. A year later, Charles joined her in Akron, and the two soon became engaged.
Margaret married the love of her life, Rev. Charles Jack, in 1943. In the early years of their marriage, she worked as a sales clerk to support Charles while he attended Alderson Broaddus College. Following his graduation, the couple moved to Kansas, where Margaret continued working at Montgomery Ward while Charles attended Central Baptist Seminary. Together, they began a lifetime of service to the American Baptist Convention.
The couple later returned to West Virginia to serve the Baptist Church in Peterstown. After 14 years, they made their home in Weston before eventually settling in Alderson, where Margaret became a beloved and familiar part of the community.
Throughout her life, Margaret wore many hats — preacher’s wife, restaurant owner, homemaker, biscuit maker at Ross’ Express Station, and Alderson’s beloved “Pie Lady.” She later served in the Foster Grandparent Program at Alderson Elementary School, continuing her work with children until the age of 89.
Margaret was a pillar of her community and will be remembered for her generosity, kindness, grace, and unwavering spirit. She never seemed to meet a person who could not use a little extra kindness. Whether preparing a warm meal for someone in need, making pies, sharing a homemade biscuit, or giving children at school a little money for ice cream, Margaret gave freely and expected nothing in return.
Her greatest legacy, however, was the love she gave to her family. She was the cherished matriarch of her family, a faithful friend, a compassionate neighbor, and a woman whose life reflected the faith she held so dearly. Her kindness touched generations, and the lessons she taught through the way she lived will continue through those who loved her.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband of 68 years, Rev. Charles Jack; an infant son, Charles; sons Malcolm and Wallace; brothers Virgil (Eula), John (Millie), Frank “Bob,” Charles (Peg), Ed, and Henry (Martha); sisters Lorena (Jack) Hedrick, Clara Edrington, Betty Young, Carol “Sue” (Jack) Lowe, Emily (Joe) Moore, and Annabelle (Kelly) Asbury; sister-in-law Annabelle Jack (Marvin) Waters; and grandson-in-law Butler Brown.
She is survived by her daughter, Merriam, and her husband, JJ Cole; beloved grandchildren JJ (Leann) Cole, Tish Brown, and Amanda (Charley) DePriest; great-grandchildren Aiden Cole, Kinsley Cole, Charley DePriest, John DePriest, and Griffin Brown; a special niece whom she raised, Kaye (Buddy) Miller; sister-in-law Bonnie Asbury; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who were blessed to know her.
Margaret’s life was a testament to faith, family, and the simple power of kindness. She leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years alone, but in the lives she touched, the love she gave, and the memories she leaves with those who will forever carry her in their hearts.
She lived faithfully. She loved generously. She served humbly. And she was ready to go home.
Graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, at Old Greenbrier Cemetery, Monroe St., Alderson, WV.
Pallbearers will be family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Peyton Hospice House, 1265 Maplewood Avenue, Lewisburg, WV 24901 or Alderson Elementary School PTO Ice Cream Friday, 135 Lee Street North, Alderson, WV 24910.
Morgan Funeral Home is serving the family. Online guestbook may be signed at www.morganfh.net.
