Margaret Ann Way, lifelong resident of Arcadia, died peacefully after a period of declining health a few months short of her 100th birthday. She passed away at home in the same house in which she was born, a structure built by her grandparents. The daughter of W. Amos Way, Sr., and Amy (Sroufe) Way, Margaret was the second of two children, born nine years after her beloved brother, William Amos "Bubba" Way. Margaret's long life was characterized by deep commitment and achievement in a distinguished career in city government and by her active participation and leadership in her church. Moreover, hers was a life of integrity and generosity in the community. A graduate of DeSoto County High School, Margaret's work for the City of Arcadia began when she was hired to fill a part-time position in 1941. After graduating, she was offered and accepted full-time employment in the City Recorder's office in 1942. This was the beginning of her long career in city government, which over time saw her serve in a variety of capacities, including City Treasurer, Tax Assessor, Tax Collector, Clerk, Finance Officer, Building Inspector, City Manager, Purchasing Agent, and Public Works Director. But she is most remembered for being elected City Recorder in 1959 and being consistently re-elected, serving 43 years in that capacity. While officially retiring in 2002, because of her "institutional memory" Margaret continued to work as a "Special Advisor" until her "final" retirement in 2008, culminating her 67 years of service to the people of Arcadia. In recognition of her first fifty years of service, in 1981 the city named its administrative building on Polk Street in her honor.

In addition to numerous professional accomplishments, Margaret exemplified a life of faith. She was a devout Christian and lifetime member of Arcadia's First Presbyterian Church, where by turns she served as a deacon, elder, and church treasurer, finally being honored as Elder Emerita. An every-Sunday attendee, Margaret particularly loved and supported the church's preschool program. On the night before she died, to her delight choir members from the church visited her at home to serenade her with Christmas carols. Despite her very busy life, Margaret found time to enjoy the beauties of nature. A lover of the outdoors, she could often be found sitting in the shade of her carport simply enjoying her beautiful, majestic trees with their beards of Spanish moss waving in the breeze, listening to the chirping of birds, savoring the fragrance of flowers, enjoying the Sandhill cranes and deer which often graced her yard, hearing the tinkling of wind chimes, and especially conversing with friends and neighbors who dropped by her North Arcadia Avenue residence. In her earlier years Margaret also enjoyed boating and fishing. While cooking was not her hobby, no one could excel her when it came to making a key lime pie. A self-effacing individual, Margaret was also known for many behind-the-scenes acts of kindness and benevolence. It was rare that when eating out that she didn't know many of the other restaurant patrons. Though never married, Margaret treasured her family. She is survived by her nephew Randolph Way and wife Martha of LaBelle, Florida, along with four great-nephews, a great-niece, and four great-great nieces.

On January 7, there will be a visitation from 10:00 to 11:30 in the First Presbyterian Church sanctuary, followed immediately by the funeral. After the service attendees are invited for a light luncheon in Pfrangle Hall. The internment of Margaret's ashes will take place in Oak Ridge Cemetery in a private ceremony.

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts in Margaret's honor may be sent to First Presbyterian Church of Arcadia, 20 N. Orange Avenue, Arcadia, Florida, 34266 for mission work, a cause dear to her heart.

Online condolences may be made at: www.pongerkaysgrady.com

Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Homes have been entrusted with the arrangements.