Margaret Brenda James Railey

With this, we honor the life of Margaret Brenda-James Railey, a woman whose journey through life was nothing short of extraordinary. Margaret was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, and spent her formative years in sunny Tampa, Florida. Her life was marked by significant achievements, resilience, and a deep well of love. Margaret's commitment to education was unwavering. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Education from Florida State University and later pursued a Master's degree from Murray State. Remarkably, she managed to serve our nation for four years in the U.S. Army while pursuing her education, proudly serving with the 101st Air Assault Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Following her military service, Margaret embarked on a career as an International Military Affairs Analyst in Washington, D.C. Her dedication and analytical skills were highly regarded in her field. In 1981, Margaret's path led her to Minerva, California, where she met her marvelous husband Charles. Their love story began at the Defense Language Institute, where Margaret was studying the Czech language. This was a turning point that shaped the rest of her life. Margaret was not only intellectually gifted but also a talented artist. Her artwork was a reflection of her inner creativity and left a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of seeing it. Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Tennis was another passion in Margaret's life. She approached the game with enthusiasm and shared it with her loved ones. Her competitive spirit was evident, yet she always displayed grace in both victory and defeat. In Fairfax, Virginia, Margaret found a sense of belonging in the local Episcopal church, where her faith served as a steadfast anchor through life's trials. In January 2023, Margaret began a new chapter in St. Augustine, Florida. Though she has left us, her legacy of determination, love for learning, and devotion to family and community will endure. While we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate the remarkable life she lived and the inspiration she provided to us all. Margaret, you will be deeply missed, but your memory will forever remain in our hearts. Margaret is survived by her loving husband, Charles Railey, her daughter, Margaret "Lynn" Railey, and her son, James Alexander Railey, along with his wife Amber of Woodbridge, Virginia. Margaret is preceded in death by her parents, Henry & Evelyn James, as well as her sister, Marsha Kirby James. Margaret's spirit lives on through her family, and she will be deeply missed but forever remembered in our hearts. A funeral service will be held at 2pm on Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at St. Johns Family Funeral Home with Pastor John Beaird officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery with military honors.

Margaret Brenda James Railey

July 26, 1948 - August 29, 2023