Margaret Lelloine Waits

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret Lelloine Waits, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many. Lelloine, as she was lovingly known, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the age of 83. Born on November 6, 1942, in Greenville, Texas, Lelloine was the beloved daughter of the late Hal and Lelloine Horton and sister to her predeceased brother, Hal "Red" Ragland Horton. Lelloine's journey through life was marked by love, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community. She shared 61 wonderful years with her devoted husband, David Waits, whom she married on February 27, 1965, in a ceremony filled with promise and hope in Greenville. Together, they created a loving home and raised three daughters: Laura, married to David Fogle; Elizabeth, married to Lance Shelton; and Rachel Waits. Her legacy continues through her seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy and pride to her life. A proud graduate of Greenville High School, Lelloine pursued higher education at Texas Tech University, earning her Bachelor's degree in 1965. Her passion for education led her to complete her Texas teaching certificate in 1982, following her cherished years as a stay-at-home mother. Lelloine dedicated 22 years to the Abernathy, Texas school system, where she touched the lives of hundreds of children with her guidance and care. Lelloine's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday school classes, organized communion, and decorated the church for countless holidays and events. Her dedication to service was recognized with the Citizen of the Year Award from the Abernathy Chamber of Commerce. A woman of many talents and interests, Lelloine was an avid gardener and birdwatcher, always finding beauty in the simple joys of nature. Her creative spirit shone in her ability to sew, can fresh produce, paint, and even build dollhouses. Her hands were never idle, and her heart was always full, whether she was leading Girl Scout troops or engaging in friendly competition as the family's notorious game night "cheater." Lelloine's no-nonsense approach to life, combined with her infectious happiness, inspired those around her. She was known for her love of travel adventures and her take-charge attitude, all delivered with a healthy dose of love and kindness. A service to celebrate Lelloine's life will be held on March 3, 2026, at 1:30 PM at W Methodist Church, located at 123 Main. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to VISTO Food Bank of Gainesville or the Hunt County Bras for the Cause Non-Profit Mobile Mammogram Memorial Fund. The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Family First Care of Gainesville, Texas Oncology Dr. Kurkle, the nursing staff of Gainesville Hospital, and Denton Presbyterian Hospital staff for their wonderful care. Special thanks are extended to the W Methodist Church family for their unwavering support. Lelloine will be remembered for her steadfast love, her enduring legacy of kindness and creativity, and the profound impact she made on everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts.