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The extraordinary life of Miss Margaret Burdick Van Dyke came to an end on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2010. She was 104. Miss Van Dyke was born Nov. 29, 1905, in Newport, the only child of Percy Hampton Van Dyke and Lula (Empie) Van Dyke.
Miss Van Dyke was a lifelong resident of Newport, but a love for adventure carried her to the far corners of the world. She traveled extensively in this country, as well as internationally. Miss Van Dyke spent many winters in Florida and summers in Maine. As recently as two years ago, she journeyed to Florida, " to dip her toes into the ocean just one more time." Miss Van Dyke shared travel adventures with hometown friends in her " Eliza Doolittle" column in the Newport Daily Independent, the newspaper owned by the Van Dyke family. Another of her loves was teaching dance to young people in the Jackson County area.
Miss Van Dyke was known throughout Jackson County by her signature tam, bright red lipstick, and knee socks. She was ageless, engaging in friendships spanning several generations. Miss Van Dyke's years were marked with a zest for life. She embraced many charitable and political organizations, giving generously and passionately to causes she believed in.
Miss Van Dyke is survived by several beloved cousins, as well as devoted caregivers. She has been a treasured presence in Newport as long as anyone can remember, and will be sorely missed by a host of dear friends.
A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, March 13, 2010 at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Newport. Following the service, friends are invited to gather for a reception at the Parish House to share memories of Miss Van Dyke's life. Memorials may be sent to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 367, Newport, AR 72112, First Presbyterian Church, 4th and Main Street, Newport, AR 72112, or the Jackson County Library, P.O. Box 748, Newport, AR 72112.
Arrangements by Jackson's Newport Funeral Home (www.jacksonsfh.com). |
