Margaret F. (Brown) Bodge

Margaret "Brownie" Bodge 92, of Acton, Massachusetts passed away on November 03, 2019 at Sunny Acres Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Chelmsford, Mass. She was born on July 27, 1927. Margaret grew up in Ipswich, Massachusetts, the home town of her parents the late George and Dorothy (Hill) Brown. She was educated in Ipswich schools and attended Boston University. She was predeceased by her husband Richard, sister Ruth, and brother Robert. Margaret is survived by her daughter Heidi Carson of Williamsburg, Massachusetts and her cousins William and Miriam Boylyn of Georgetown, Massachusetts.

Brownie was a resident of South Acton for more than 60 years. She lived on Piper Lane for a short while and then moved to the oldest house in Acton, the 1707 Faulkner House on High Street. Brownie was the caretaker for this historically significant property, owned by the non-profit Iron Work Farm, Inc., for over one-half century. She created and maintained the old fashioned English Garden there for many years. Brownie's extensive knowledge of plants and her gardening skills were well known throughout town. Her gardening talents were in high demand by area homeowners to create gardens on private properties. She created many gardens for residents of Acton and taught them how to beautify and maintain their yards.

Brownie was very knowledgeable about the history of Acton, particularly that of South Acton. She was a "go to person" for obscure facts for which she always had the correct answer. She participated in many historical reenactments including Patriots Day, Robin's Ride, and others.

Brownie loved to do crafts. She designed and created many needlework projects which were sold in gift shops in several states. Many local residents have "Handmade by Brownie" Christmas ornaments. These will forever be a reminder of her warm smile and gentle caring of others. She generously donated many to charitable organizations for their fund raisers.

Brownie managed the Owl Shop in South Acton and then in West Concord where it moved there until it closed. The Owl Shop was so named because it was open in the evening from 7 to 9 pm. She and the owner traveled the local area searching for antiques and other treasures for resale in their shop.

Brownie will be remembered as an intelligent and interesting person who was never idle and always loved a good conversation. She was often spotted riding her bicycle in Acton and surrounding towns.

A private memorial service will be held in the spring 2020. In-lieu-of flowers, donations can be made to Iron Work Farm PO Box 1111 Acton, MA.