Margaret Whitehead

Margaret Whitehead, affectionately known as Midge, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2025, at Cedar Crest in Pompton Plains, NJ, just a few weeks shy of her 99th birthday.
Born on March 26, 1926, in Woodbridge, NJ, Midge moved with her family to the Bronx as a young girl. It was there that she met the love of her life, Bert Whitehead, and the two married in 1945. They later settled in Fair Lawn, NJ, where they raised three children.
Midge dedicated her career to the Fair Lawn Public Library, where her passion for books and learning inspired many. While working, she pursued her education, earning a Bachelor's degree in Library Science from Ramapo Valley College and later achieving her Master's from Rutgers University. She truly loved her work and always had a book in hand.
A woman of many talents and traditions, Midge was known for always having a jigsaw puzzle on the table and for her legendary Sunday family dinners. Her apple strudel, stuffed cabbage, and potato haluski were cherished family favorites, bringing everyone together with warmth and love.
Midge's generosity knew no bounds-her home was always open to anyone in need, and she dedicated much of her life to serving others. A longtime member of the Ridgefield Park Reformed Presbyterian Church, she was a devoted deacon and an active leader in many committees. She would often travel between Fair Lawn, the Bronx, and Ridgefield Park just to attend services, a testament to her deep faith and commitment to her community.
She is survived by her daughter, Denise Jenkins of Rhode Island; daughters-in-law, Kathy Whitehead of Manchester, NJ, and Vivian Whitehead of California; four beloved grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.
Midge was reunited in eternal peace with her husband, Bert, who passed in 1969; her sons, Robert (2016) and Michael (2024); and her grandson, Ryan Whitehead (2015).
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Midge's life at a visitation on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 1:00 – 3:00 PM at Scanlan Funeral Home in Pompton Plains, NJ. A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Redeemer Cemetery in Mahwah, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Leukemia And Lymphoma Society in memory of Margaret.
Midge's kindness, love, and unwavering faith left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.