Margaret Irene Corbin, a cherished matriarch of her family, passed away peacefully at the age of 81 on October 11, 2025, in Philadelphia, PA, due to complications from colon cancer. Born on August 1, 1944, in Robeson, NC, Margaret was a woman with a great nurturing spirit, a dash of sass, and a wonderful sense of humor. Margaret grew up in a bustling household, the light of her parents, Madison and Margette Roberts. She was a sister sharing laughter and life's lessons with Mary Ann, Thelma, Pearline, James Edward, Charles Eugene, and Carolyn Beatrice.  Her childhood in North Carolina was filled with the warmth of family and the strength of community bonds. Though she would say goodbye to her beloved parents and siblings before her own journey's end, their influence on her life was profound and enduring. 

After graduating from J.H. Hayswood High School, Margaret's path led her to serve others, first as a homemaker, then as a caretaker, weaving the fabric of her family with threads of love and dedication. In the early 1980s, Margaret's caring nature found a new expression as she joined the City of New York Board of Education as a Crossing Guard. She was a familiar and reassuring presence to countless children, guiding them safely across life's early intersections. With time, her role evolved, and she became a School Security Guard, eventually earning the title of School Safety Agent after the New York Board of Education's merger with the New York Police Department. Margaret retired after 28 years of committed service, leaving behind a legacy of safety and care for the city's children.

Margaret's spirituality was a guiding light in her life, a source of comfort and strength that she drew upon in times of joy and hardship alike. Her interests were simple yet profound: she found peace in walking daily, adult coloring, creating unique art pieces, meditation, and surrounding herself with the laughter and stories of her children. Margaret's love was a sanctuary, her generosity a given, and her selflessness a lesson to all who knew her.

She leaves behind a rich tapestry of love and memories. Margaret's legacy continues through her children, Ann (deceased husband Ivan Hickman), Terri (husband Kevin Hutchinson), and Michael (wife Ceila Santos-Corbin). Her three grandchildren, Andrea (husband Edward Jones), Kyla, and Jonathan, will carry forward her nurturing spirit and love for life.

Margaret is survived by her sister-in-law, Dorothy Louise Roberts, and an extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will deeply feel her absence, yet find comfort in the wealth of memories she has left behind. To quote the famous poet Maya Angelou, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Margaret made everyone she encountered feel loved, valued, and safe.

As we bid farewell to Margaret Irene Corbin, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart generously shared. Her light will continue to shine in the lives of those she touched, and her spirit will forever guide us in moments of reflection and love.

Please Note: In keeping with Margaret’s wishes, a private memorial will be held for close family and friends at a later time. The family deeply appreciates all who offered prayers, love, and support, and requests that any floral tributes be replaced with donations to Hayes Manor Retirement Residence.