Margaret Dean Martin Case was born June 12, 1949 in McNairy County, Tennessee, the daughter of the late William Gilcie and Rachel Genevie Ward Martin.
Growing up in the tight-knit community of Gilchrist, Margaret developed the principles and ethics that guided her throughout her life. Margaret was a 1968 graduate of Adamsville High School. While in high school she worked at WDTM radio station in Selmer. Following graduation, she met and married Terry G. Case on June 7, 1969. They moved to Martin, TN and while there she worked at Martin Manufacturing. Upon Terry’s graduation from The University of Tennessee at Martin they returned home to start their careers. Margaret began working at DaMac, Inc. and after several years of public service she became a businesswoman, co-owning and operating Sports Productions, LLC with partner Shirley Mathis for over 25 years.
Margaret was passionate about many things in life, but above all she treasured her only child, Benjie, with a sincere love, true and caring. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart; she loved them as only a grandmother could. Her love for music was only exceeded by her love of family. She learned to play piano about the age of nine and played until she could no longer sit on the piano stool at Mount Sharon Presbyterian Church. She also played piano for The Waymakers Quartet for many years. They traveled all over the country singing and playing gospel music. Singing in the group with her was brother Lendon; husband Terry played the guitar. This was a wonderful time in her life.
Margaret also loved going to the beach any time she could; especially so when her grandchildren were able to accompany her. Collecting seashells and walking in the sand late in the evening, watching the sun set, were among her favorite activities. She also enjoyed tending the flowers in her yard in Gilchrist, especially her roses.
Margaret was a faithful lifelong member of Mount Sharon Presbyterian Church. She was a member of the Presbyterian Women Organization until she was no longer able to attend. When Margaret became homebound and was placed under Hospice care, she was blessed to have two precious caregivers, Ruth Ryan and her special cousin Ann Gilchrist. Recently she was admitted to HMC Health & Rehabilitation Center, where she ultimately surrendered her frail earthly body for a resting place with no pain or sorrow; only joy, singing, and wonderful peace.
Margaret departed this life in Savannah, TN on March 16, 2024 at the age of 74 Years, 9 Months, 4 Days. She is survived by a son, Benjie Case and wife Joy of Savannah, TN; three grandchildren: Tucker Case, Ty Case, and Taylor Case; sisters-in-law Judy Hendrix and Priscilla Martin; special cousin Ann Gilchrist; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Terry G. Case, and two brothers, Lendon Martin and James Neal (Hookie) Martin.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Gentiva Hospice, especially Margaret’s favorite nurse “Cat,” as well as the nurses and staff of HMC Health & Rehabilitation Center.
Memorials may be made to the Gilchrist Cemetery Fund, 155 Paulomar Drive, Selmer, TN 38375.
