Margaret Ditson died peacefully on July 9. She was 67.

Margaret was born on November 6, 1952, the eighth child and only daughter of George R. Searle and Margaret A. Searle.

She spent most of her early years on the Island and graduated from the Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School. In 1982, she married Randy, the love of her life. Margaret loved to travel. She and Randy enjoyed visiting family all over the country and cruising to the Caribbean.

With Margaret, her family was always first. With a family as large as hers, her love and support spanned multiple generations. She was there for anyone who needed advice, a shoulder to lean on or had a problem that needed solving. For many of her nieces and nephews, Margaret was a constant presence, dependable and like a second mother. She loved her family so much and had an impressive collection of what must be thousands of photos documenting their lives for decades.

She had a heart of gold. Her infectious laugh could be heard at every family gathering. She was the heart and soul of her extended Searle family and her impact will never be forgotten.

She was predeceased by her parents, and her brothers George, William (Ross), Stewart, David, Robert (Bobby), and James (Jimmy).

She is survived by her husband, Randy; son, Howie, and his wife, Jessica; stepdaughter, Janette McKenzie, and her husband, Wes; brother, Alex, and his wife, Deborah; and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, July 24, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Chapman, Cole, & Gleason Funeral Home, Oak Bluffs. A graveside service will be held the following day, Saturday, July 25, at 11 a.m., at the New West Side Cemetery, Edgartown, officiated by Reverend Dr. Roger Spinney.

Arrangements are under the care of the Chapman, Cole and Gleason Funeral Home, Edgartown Road, Oak Bluffs.

Visit ccgfuneralhome.com for online guest book and information.