DELRAY BEACH — When she lived on Vista Del Mar, Margaret
Rockefeller’s home was affectionately known to friends as “Chez
Margo.” The nickname was a testament to a woman whose life balanced
irrepressible wit with a serious devotion to both animals and art.
“She was just always full of surprises,” recalled Marilyn Brown, a
friend of nearly 10 years. “She was interesting, and funny, and you
never knew when she was going to come out with one of those
zingers.” A longtime resident of Delray Beach, Mrs. Brown died
March 5 at Harbor’s Edge, where she and her husband, Godfrey, moved
last year. She was 81. Born August 9, 1927, in Bronxville, N.Y.,
Mrs. Rockefeller was a graduate of Garrison Forrest High School and
the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She had worked for
the Bonwit Teller department store before her marriage in 1956.
Mrs. Rockefeller was a great advocate for both animals and the
arts, having worked with the British naturalist Gerald Durrell to
help establish the Wildlife Preservation Trust. She was also a
longtime patron of the Miami City Ballet, and served many years on
its board of directors. “You could just tell she had a well-lived
life, and had really enjoyed that life,” Brown said. “I don’t think
she left a lot out.” In addition to her husband of 52 years, Mrs.
Rockefeller is survived by her daughter, Caroline R. Spencer of
Willow, Creek, Mont.; and her son, Parker B. Rockefeller of Arnold,
Md., as well as her sister, Caroline K. Bloy of Topsham, Maine, and
many grandchildren. A memorial service was held at St. Paul’s
Episcopal Church on March 9. Donations in Mrs. Rockefeller’s name
may be made to the Miami City Ballet, 2100 Liberty Ave., Miami, FL
33139.
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