Margie Stephenson

Margie Stephenson

May 3, 1933 – May 5, 2026

Margie Stephenson, 93, of Darlington, Wisconsin, passed peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family.  Margie was born on May 3, 1933, in Darlington, Wisconsin, to Charles and Sadie (Wickler) Moore. She spent her early years attending rural schools in Lafayette County before moving to Darlington, where she graduated from Darlington High School. During her school years, Margie was active in forensics, band, chorus, cheerleading, and softball, and was known for her leadership and dedication. She proudly served as a majorette—something she carried with confidence and joy—and graduated as valedictorian, serving as secretary-treasurer of her class.

On November 2, 1952, she married the love of her life, Franklin (Frankie) Stephenson, at the United Methodist Church in Darlington. Together, they built a life grounded in faith, family, and hard work, raising their children, Bruce and Lisa, and creating a home on the Stephenson family farm in Wiota.

That farm was more than a place—it was the heart of Margie’s life. It was where memories were made, where laughter carried across open fields, and where family and friends gathered again and again. It was a place of belonging, of tradition, and of love—one that shaped generations and reflected the life Margie and Frankie built together.

Margie’s work life reflected her steady commitment and strong work ethic. She served as a secretary and bookkeeper for McConnell-Whalen Agency in Darlington for over 25 years. She was also part of the opening of the Production Credit Association office in Darlington, where she worked as a loan assistant, secretary, and receptionist. Later, she continued her service through various roles with the State of Wisconsin until her retirement.

A woman deeply devoted to her community, Margie gave generously of her time, heart, and talents. She was an active member of the United Methodist Church, supporting many church functions over the years. She was also involved in Wiota Homemakers, where she formed lifelong friendships, including a special bond with her dear friend, Marilyn Carpenter.

Margie served on the Darlington School Board for over 30 years, a role she held with pride and dedication. In 2001, she was recognized by the Wisconsin Association of School Boards for her exemplary service and commitment to the children of Wisconsin. She had a gift for making others feel seen and appreciated, often sending handwritten notes and cards to recognize the accomplishments of others. Whether through a warm smile, a kind word, or a thoughtful gesture, Margie made a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.

 Margie was many things—a dedicated professional, a community leader, a faithful church member, and a trusted friend. But at her center, in the deepest part of who she was, she was the wife of a farmer, the mother of two children, and the matriarch of a family whose roots are firmly planted in the soil of the Stephenson family farm. Her greatest joy was her family and the life she helped grow and nurture there. Margie and Frankie also shared a love of sports and were enthusiastic, lifelong fans of the Darlington

Redbirds, Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers, and the Green Bay Packers—rarely missing a chance to cheer on their teams.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Schweitzer; her grandchildren, Jamie (Bill) Smith, Ashley (Chad) Fox, Chad (Hailey) Stephenson, Jared (Amanda) Schweitzer, Jason Schweitzer, and Dana (Chad) Wilson; as well as eleven great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Franklin Stephenson; her son, Bruce Stephenson; her parents, Charles Moore and Sadie Bovee; her sister, Betty Parkinson; and her son-in-law, Wayne Schweitzer.

Margie will be remembered for her unwavering love of family, her quiet strength, her servant’s heart, and the joy she found in life’s simple blessings—time with loved ones, her faith, and sharing homemade treats like her strawberry pies, scotcheroos, and well-loved recipes.

 A funeral service will be held on Saturday May 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Darlington United Methodist Church (550 Main St. Darlington WI 53530) with Rev. Han Lee presiding. A visitation will be held on Friday May 8, 2026, from 4:00PM- 7:00PM at the Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington (508 Main St. Darlington WI, 53530). A visitation prior to the funeral service on Saturday May 9, 2026, will be held from 10:00AM-10:45AM at the church. The Erickson Funeral Home in Darlington is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.ericksonfuneralhome.com