Margaret Nolan O’Neill, beloved daughter, sister, and friend, passed away on October 22, 2021, just days after her 26th birthday.
Born on October 3, 1995, at United Hospital in Port Chester, she was the daughter of Tim and Nan O’Neill and was raised in Rye. Maggie, as she was called, attended Christ’s Church Nursery School, graduated middle school from Convent of the Sacred Heart in Greenwich, Conn., and then graduated cum laude from The Taft School in Watertown, Conn. She went on to Columbia University, receiving a degree in Political Science focused on world religions.
A uniquely wonderful individual, Maggie O’Neill seemingly touched all whom she met and knew, both young and old. From an unusually young age, she was dedicated to making the world a better place and her life reflected this. Her passion for politics, current events, and global inter-connectedness drove her involvement in countless interests. Whether through a one-on-one conversation or in grander forums, she thrived on learning from others to form her own views with a deep respect for all opinions and arguments. A voracious reader with a keen interest in history, her boundless curiosity and eagerness to know this world fed her love of travel.
Maggie was unselfish, caring, thoughtful and loyal, and always put others ahead of herself, said her family. Not one to bow to peer pressure, she always remained true to herself. Many have commented on her natural leadership qualities and diplomatic approach to problem-solving. Maggie was kind and wise and held a fierce belief in fairness, which was reflected in her strong moral compass. With a sharp wit often accompanied by a wry smile, she had a true sense of fun and adventure and this made her a joy to be with.
“While all who knew and loved Maggie grieve with the loss of her on this earth, we know her spirit will never leave us. We will continue to learn from, laugh with, and hold on tightly to Maggie’s essence,” said her family.
In addition to her parents, Tim and Nan, Maggie O’Neill leaves behind her three sisters, Ellie, Caroline, and Jarvy; her cherished dogs, Romney and Annie; a large extended family across the U.S.; and many friends around the globe.
The family will hold a private ceremony, but has planned a celebration of Maggie’s short, but full life on Saturday, May 14, 2022, at the Jay Heritage Center in Rye, and would be honored for all who wish to please join them. A reception will begin at 4 p.m., followed by a program of remembrances and celebration at 5 p.m. The reception will continue after the program. For those who are unable to attend, the celebration will be live-streamed.
While the tremendous outpouring of love for Maggie is the O’Neill family’s most treasured gift, for those who have inquired, gifts in Maggie’s honor will be gratefully and humbly accepted by: The Joslin Diabetes Center, One Joslin Place, Suite 745, Boston, MA 02215 www.joslin.org/donate (a global leader in research to cure Type 1 diabetes); or The Jay Heritage Center, 210 Boston Post Road, Rye, NY 10580, attn: Kevin Peraino https://jayheritagecenter.org/join-give/membership-funding-opportunities/ (The home of American Founding Father, jurist, peacemaker, and anti-slavery advocate John Jay; the Jay Heritage Center is now a National Historic Landmark and education center.)
