Margaret E. Manning

Margaret M. Barrett was born on October 2, 1950, to the adoring parents, William and Hazel Manning. Her little sister and brother, Judy Vaughn and Steve Cannon, lovingly gave her the name, “Marri”. It is jokingly said that Margaret was born with high heeled shoes on, as she proved to be a natural born leader, even at a young age. Margaret met and married her first husband, John Avery, while working as a camp counselor at the former Baptist Retreat, Camp Marietta. She gave birth to a son, Michael Avery, and a daughter, Jeanna Stronkowsky. She then married Michael Driscoll, “Papa”, many years later. Her family grew in-size and love when Margaret took on her favorite role as an admiring grandmother. Her grandchildren called her “Mema” and she became a trusted confidant to each one of them. She loved her family more than anything in this world. Her lifelong closeness with her children led to a tight bond with her seven grandchildren; Katherine Clark, Garrett Avery, Johnathon (J.D.) Clark, Addison Avery, Joseph Stronkowsky, Lilly Clark, and Amber Stronkowsky. She was also extremely close to her son-in-law, Joseph Stronkowsky, with whom she shared a lot of similar personality traits. Margaret was a go-getter. When she set a goal, there was absolutely nothing that could stop her. Professionally, she was considered an expert in her field. She taught, employed, and worked with some of the best paralegals in the state. Her company, Barrett’s Paralegal Services, was highly successful and she ran it with compassion and distinct prestige. She was incredibly respected by many colleagues and an abundance of friends. A lifelong fan of the South Carolina Gamecocks, Margaret’s blood literally ran black and garnet. You could always find her wearing one of her many University of South Carolina T-shirts. She even bought a car in the same shade as Gamecock red. She spent her Saturdays screaming at the T.V. and cheering on her beloved team. Thank goodness, she got to witness her “boys” beat Clemson one last time! One of her favorite moments in life was meeting the great Marcus Lattimore. Marcus quickly realized that she was his biggest fan. A true “80’s Lady”, Margaret was a pioneer for women and was a true example that a lady can be strong and resilient, while still being classy and nurturing to those in her life. She will be missed by so many, but especially her family, whom she dedicated her life to. Funeral services will be held 4:00 p.m. Saturday, February 15, 2025, at The Wood Mortuary Chapel conducted by Pastor Jerry Madden with webcasting available. Memorials may be made to Daily Bread Ministries, STEP Shelter, 521 East Poinsett Street, Greer, South Carolina 29651. Online condolences may be made to www.thewoodmortuary.com.

Margaret E. Manning

October 2, 1950 - February 9, 2025