Margaret “Maggie” (Colton) Coty, 92, of Mashpee, MA, passed away on August 14, 2024, at her daughter’s home.  Margaret had a long and wonderful life.

Maggie was born on April 14, 1932 to William and Mary (Glasheen) in Athol, MA.  She graduated from Athol High School in 1950 and then went to work as a reporter for the Athol Daily News.

She met John “Jack” Coty of Pittsfield, MA on a blind date.  They married on June 2, 1956.  They enjoyed 49 years of marriage.

Together they raised five lively children, Kate Taintor (Bartlett), Mary Coty, Alice Coty-Brookes (Dean), John Coty (Deborah) and Paul Coty (Sandy) at their house on Chestnut Street in Amherst, MA.  She also leaves a former son-in-law, Scott Edman and former daughter-in-law, Theresa Coty.  She was predeceased by her parents, husband and her siblings, William Colton and Mary Maciacius.

Over the years, Maggie worked in the Amherst school system and eventually she and Jack were house parents at the Summerhill House in Amherst, MA.  In later years, she volunteered in the community and served on the Amherst SALT council.

Maggie was a talented knitter and created hundreds of gifts for family and friends.  She enjoyed music and singing with Jack, oftentimes while they played the piano in the kitchen, surrounded by family, neighbors, animals and a parakeet chirping in accompaniment.

In addition to her children, Maggie leaves a brother, Richard Colton (Barbara), grandchildren, Chris, Jen, John, Katelyn, Keith, Colton, Mary, Paul, Bartholomew, Tiffany, Joseph and her great grandchildren, Althea, Tyler, Macey, Oliver, Elodie, Kacy, Isabella and Camille.  She also leaves her beloved Goddaughter, Anne Shanks, cousin Joy Taintor and many nieces and nephews.

Maggie was a devoted member of St. Brigid’s church in Amherst, and requested that her funeral be held at the church she loved so much.  All services will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2024.  Calling hours will be 8:30-9:45 am at Douglass Funeral Service in Amherst, MA.  A Mass of Christian Burial at St. Brigid’s Parish will follow at 10:00 am.  After the mass, Maggie will be laid to rest at the Quabbin Park Cemetery, Ware, MA.

 Please omit flowers.  If you wish to give a donation in Margaret’s name, it can be made to any hospice organization, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or any charity of your choice. Memorial guestbook at www.douglassfuneral.com