Margaret Hough

Margaret “Margie” Dinning Hough, 82, of Hubbardston, MA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 30, 2024.

Born on September 9, 1942, in Greenock, Scotland, to Michael and Mary (O’Connell) Dinning, Margaret lived a life filled with love, compassion, and devotion to her family and community.

On December 7, 1963, Margaret married her beloved husband, Ronald Gilbert Hough Sr., in Holy Loch, Scotland. Soon after, the couple settled in Gardner, Massachusetts, where they built a life together.

Margaret worked as a nurse’s aide, beginning her career at Eastwood Pines Nursing Home before moving to Heywood Hospital in Gardner. Her gentle touch and nurturing spirit shone brightest during her time in the maternity ward, where she cared for newborns with unparalleled kindness. Margaret’s love for babies was evident in her every interaction, whether she was tending to patients, cuddling her grandchildren, or doting on her great-grandchildren.

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Margaret’s warmth and unwavering love were the foundation of her family’s life. She cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her beloved dog, Spencer. Her kindness and devotion extended beyond her family to her community and church. As a dedicated parishioner of St. Patrick’s Church in Rutland, Margaret found solace and strength in her faith.

Margaret is survived by her four children: Ronald G. Hough Jr. and his spouse Beatriz Hough of Weston, FL; Rowdy W. Hough and his girlfriend Carolyn Murphy of Templeton, MA; Unis M. Barrett of Hubbardston, MA; and Heather M. Newton and her spouse Robert Newton Sr. of Orange, MA. She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Brittany Walker, Robert Newton Jr., Sarah Mallette, Mariana Hough, and Brianna Barrett; as well as four great-grandchildren: Madisyn, Isaac, Callen, and Naomi Walker.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 34 years, Ronald G. Hough Sr., who passed away in 1998, her grandson Aaron Newton; her five siblings; Michael, Hugh, Jacky, Mary, and Edith; as well as a daughter-in-law, Agnes Arleta Hough. 

Calling Hours will be held Saturday, January 4, 2025, at from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in the Boucher Funeral Home, Inc., 110 Nichols Street, Gardner, MA. Funeral Services will follow at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial will be held at Wildwood Cemetery, West Street, Gardner, MA. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Gardner Police Relief Association, 200 Main Street, Gardner, MA 01440. Please reference the “Hough Scholarship in Memory of Margaret.”

Margaret “Margie” Dinning Hough will be remembered for her selfless heart, unwavering love for her family, and her lifelong dedication to caring for others. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.