Margaret Gentges

Margaret Ann Heflin Gentges passed away peacefully on the morning of March 24, 2021, in Littleton, Colorado. Margaret Ann is remembered fondly by all who knew her as a warm, joyful soul with a quick smile and cheerful demeanor. She was the beloved wife of Frank H. Gentges for 49 years, mother to Douglas Allyn and Sharon Louise Gentges, and grandmother to three granddaughters, Emma, Amanda, and Alden. She was born in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Edith and Stanley Heflin, and lived most of her life in Great Falls, Virginia.

Margaret took great pride in her role as a mother and a leader in her community. Her family joked that she was a “Professional Volunteer,” always eager to lend a hand.  Her volunteer activities included the Boy Scouts of America, where she was awarded the Silver Beaver for distinguished service, the Girl Scouts, Red Cross, PTA, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Legion of Mary, and numerous other organizations. Margaret and Frank were active members of Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church in Sterling, Virginia.

Margaret graduated from George Washington High School in Alexandria, VA and Stetson University in DeLand, FL. After an early career as a Computer Systems Analyst for the Department of Justice, Margaret elected to stay home to raise her children. She used to joke that she started doing genealogical research as a way to escape the “goo-goo ga-ga” at least once a week. What began as a minor interest turned into a lifelong passion.  Margaret researched both her own family and her husband Frank’s family, tracing lineages back to the Revolutionary War, to small towns in Germany, and even to the Mayflower. She then moved on to what she called “Community Genealogy,” researching and publishing the histories of the families of Osage County, Missouri.

Any account of Margaret’s life wouldn’t be complete without mentioning her love of nature, which she passed on to her own children, as well as to many Boy and Girl Scouts over the years. Margaret knew the names of every bird, plant, and flower she saw. She knew campcraft, knot tying, first aid, crafts, and skits, and was always happy to start a round of singing by the campfire. Her garden included a dizzying array of native plants and her bird-feeders were always overflowing.

Margaret’s joyful spirit, easy smile, and warm heart will be missed by all who knew her. She will be laid to rest at Mount Comfort Cemetery in Alexandria, Virginia. The family is making plans for the interment and a celebration of her life this summer.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to any of the organizations listed above or volunteering in your own community in Margaret’s memory.