Margaret Alice Barkley Ellis, age 94, of Shelby, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, April 2, 2026.

Born on January 4, 1932, in Lincoln County, North Carolina, Margaret was the daughter of the late George Alexander Barkley and Felice Barker Barkley. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husbands, Jack Evans and Clyde Joseph "Joe" Ellis; her cherished daughter, Trilby Evans; and her brothers, Paul Alexander Barkley, James Reeves Barkley, Sr., Samuel Louis Barkley, and Archibald Ruben Barkley. In addition, she was preceded in death by several dear nieces and nephews: Leon Calvin "LC" Barkley, James R. "Jim" Barkley, Jr., Dale A. Barkley, Janette B. Winston, Christine B. Hendrick, Carolyn B. Little, Sarah Jane B. Bumgarner, and Darlene B. Massung.

Margaret devoted much of her life to education and service. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Gardner-Webb University and went on to serve as a dedicated elementary school teacher with Cleveland County Schools. She retired from Elizabeth Elementary School in 1992, leaving a lasting impression on generations of students. In addition to her work in education, she also served her community through her work at the Shelby Public Library and as a talented cosmetologist at Lena Burnette.

A woman of deep compassion and generosity, Margaret was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. She found joy in shopping and traveling, all over the world with her husband including all 50 states.

Margaret was a faithful and active member of Central United Methodist Church, where she served on the altar guild and was a member of the United Methodist Women and OWLS. Her church and faith were central to her life.

She is lovingly remembered by her many nieces and nephews: Danny A. Barkley (Vonda), Randy W. Barkley, Philip C. Barkley (Ann), Ruben E. Barkley (Ricki), Richard J. Barkley, George W. Barkley (Betty), Steven D. Barkley (Joyce), John A. Barkley, Paul Barkley (Donna), Bernice Murano (Tom), Janice Conner (Tom), Sharon Barkley, and Vicky Barkley, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Central United Methodist Church, with Rev. Mark Barden officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church sanctuary. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Central United Methodist Church Building Fund.

Online condolences may be shared at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.