It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Margaret Freeman, mother, grandmother,great grandmother and friend. Margaret passed away peacefully on February 2nd, with her children by her side.

Born August 21, 1934, Margaret lived a full and meaningful life. She was the only child to her father who hailed from Scotland and mother from Norway. Her family resided in Bethany. Throughout her life, she spent time reading and writing and found joy at the Bethany Library. It wasn't long until she found her niche as a poet. In '52, she became the class poet. And, later, she published her poetry collection, It's about Time. It is a beautiful testament to living gracefully. Her wit, wisdom, wishes and woes came alive in her whimsical poetry.

Her most valuable treasure was her family. In 1952, she married Mead Sandercock of Sandercock's Dairy. She helped out at the Sandercock Dairy Bar, and and she poured her heart into becoming the best mother to three beautiful children— Beth, Scott, and Ned.

Margaret was a woman ahead of her time. She also made her life about helping others. Her legacy included her weekly column "Bethany on the Move" published in the Wayne Independent; photography, Bethany Studio; and her love for fashion, her own boutique. Her favorite spot was in her garden. She found tranquility there, and most of all a connection with nature. She loved her cats, George and Sandy. She enjoyed listening to people and imparting her wisdom, solace and friendship. She also enjoyed spending time with her girlfriends at the Honesdale Golf Club. She had a marvelous way of inspiring others and spent her entire life getting to know everyone in her community. Margaret became Bethany's first female mayor in 2004. She took great pleasure in officiating weddings. And on Sundays, she relished spending time in God's home, the Bethany United Methodist Church. After service, she would visit with the elderly at Bethany Village.

Margaret will also be remembered for her radiant smile she shared with all people and her adventurous spirit. In 1995, she and Edward Freeman married. They traveled the world together.

Preceding in death were Mead H. Sandercock, Edward L. Freeman, son , Scott Mead Sandercock, and granddaughter, Vanessa Joy Van Gorder.

Surviving are daughter, Beth Van Gorder and husband Scott; son Ned Sandercock and wife Valerie; Grandchildren Derek and wife Sarah, Dylan and wife Laura , Max and wife Lydia, Mead and fiancé Jackie, Erik, Alex and fiancé Averi; and Lauren and her partner Casey.

Great Grandchildren Gregory, Shane, Jack, Hannah, Ben, and Marlowe .

On Thursday, February 9th, friends and family may visit from 9-11 at the Bethany United Methodist Church. A service will be held at 11. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Bethany Methodist Church (3 Court Street),or the Bethany Public Library (8 Court Street).

Margaret's elegance, beauty and grace will forever be remembered. Rest in peace, Margaret.