Margaret Phillips Stark

Margaret Phillips Stark passed away, Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at Grace Ridge Retirement Community. She was 95 years old.

She was born July 14, 1926 to the late Davis Gaston and Corrie Hildebrand Phillips. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, John W. Stark; sister, Elizabeth P. Kincaid; and brother, Davis Allen Phillips.

Surviving is her son, Jeff Stark and his wife, Alison. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Margaret retired in 1990 from Drexel Heritage Furnishings as a Purchasing Agent. She specialized in brass hardware, mirrors and upholstery. She was also instrumental as part of Drexel's management team in developing the Material Requirements Planning system as part of the manufacturing process. It was not uncommon for her to travel to various plants as a corporate troubleshooter to observe the manufacturing process and to see where material requirements improvements could be made. On occasion, she spoke at various management seminars about material requirements planning.

The day after Margaret retired from Drexel, MASCO, Drexel's parent company, hired her back to work in the MASCO Morganton office where she continued to work for several more years. She was well-respected and well-known throughout the furniture industry as she attended dozens of furniture market shows over many years.

After she retired, she enjoyed being with her husband, family and friends. She especially enjoyed the company of her miniature schnauzers she and John had over the years. Margaret was an excellent cook, baker, pianist and organist. Her positive attitude and faith greatly contributed to her longevity. She was a superb wife, mother and friend who was always there to help or volunteer.

The family wishes to thank the entire staff of the Grace Ridge Retirement Community especially the CNA/nursing staff for their compassion and their patience. The family also thanks Dr. Roger L. Seagle, Drs. Golnush Sharafsaleh and Allison Combs and Amorem Hospice and Palliative Care.

The Rev. Dana McKim will preside over a private family service at the First United Methodist Church Columbarium.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Burke Arts Council, 506 South Sterling St, Morganton, NC 28655, The Grace Ridge Endowment Fund, 500 Lenoir Rd, Morganton, NC 28655, The First United Methodist Church, 200 North King St, Morganton, NC 28655 or Amorem Hospice and Palliative Care, 902 Kirkwood St, NW, Lenoir, NC 28645.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family with the arrangements.