Margaret Elizabeth Barksdale, 89, of Terre Haute, died Friday, May 29, 2009, in her home. She was born Nov. 11, 1919, in Vincennes, to John Baker and Margaret Finnegan Baker. Her husband of 69 years, Paul Edward Barksdale Sr., preceded her in death in 2008. Survivors include a daughter, Sallie Wyatt and her husband Dr. Patrick Wyatt of Williamsburg, Va.; a son, Paul Edward Barksdale Jr. and his wife Willa of Terre Haute; eight grandchildren, Barbara Percy and her husband Lance, Pam Kiley and her husband Dr. David Kiley, Christine Barksdale, Dr. Ed Barksdale and his wife Thelma, Ryan Hall and her husband Eric, Kelly Bassett and her husband William, Casey Davis and her husband Justin, and Colin Wyatt; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She also was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Wyant Baker; and a sister, Mary Mountz. Margaret lived in Vincennes for many years, then moved to California for 25 years. She later returned to Terre Haute, where she spent a large part of her time serving as a volunteer with many organizations including the Volunteer Action Center, where she wrote the "Volunteer of the Month" column. The family would like to thank Sue Barksdale, Phil Mountz, the staff of Sycamore Manor and Pam Baker for the care they have shown to our mother in recent years. Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, June 5, 2009, in St. Patrick Catholic Church, with Father Rick Ginther officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2009, from 5 to 7 p.m. in Callahan and Hughes Funeral Home, 605 S. 25th St. If friends so desire memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1807 Poplar St., Terre Haute, IN 47803.

Published in The Tribune Star from 6/2/2009 - 6/4/2009.