Margaret was born in 1938 in Rockford, Illinois, to Robert and Katherine Sweeney. Margaret married Leland Eugene Smith in 1955, in Rockford. Together they had three children: Micheal Craig Smith of Lompoc, California, Mitchell Scott Smith (deceased), and Jeannette Lynn Forrest, of Clive, Iowa. She has two beloved grandchildren: Samantha Behncke (Husband: Cristian), and AJ Behncke, both currently living in Iowa. She is survived by her dearly loved sister Kathleen Armstrong (Husband: Richard) and was preceded in death by her parents, husband Leland Smith. her brother James Sweeney, and son Mitchell Smith. She was loved by and loved her many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Margaret and Lee built a very happy life together in Southern California and lived there for over 50 years. She loved her ranch in the beautiful Cebada Canyon in Lompoc, California. She was especially fond of reading, growing stunning roses, and spending time with family and friends. She was known for her fantastic parties on the ranch, and the incredible meals she made from scratch - with only the BEST noodles, of course.

Margaret worked for many years as a legal secretary for the County of Santa Barbara, California. Once retired, she enjoyed growing and attending to her flowers, reading, and watching the amazing sunsets on her ranch. Margaret’s greatest joy was spending time with family, especially her two grandchildren, Samantha and AJ. She was known for her sassiness, quick wit, and incredible sense of humor. Margaret had an amazing gift of finding the best in people, and quickly offered the best life advice that was derived from her incredibly large heart.

Margaret loved animals, especially her many dogs she had throughout her lifetime. With a veterinarian and wildlife rehabber for a granddaughter, she would gladly welcome a bird, snake, or raccoon into her home, as long as they did not touch the Tiffany lamps. Margaret enjoyed everything with her family and friends, from amazing international vacations to sitting on the deck and chatting for hours with a glass of wine. She was very fond of having debates with her grandson AJ, and they could discuss the smallest issue at great lengths bringing them both happiness and many memories.

She has left behind a lifetime of wonderful memories of time spent together with her family. Her spicy Italian sass and wonderful sense of humor will be truly missed at every family gathering.

Margaret’s family would like to thank Affinity Home Care and Care Initiatives Hospice for their wonderful care of Margaret prior to her death.

There will be a celebration of life for Margaret on June 27th at 4pm at her daughter’s residence in Clive Iowa.

A memorial mass will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 at 10am at Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Lompoc, graveside service immediately to follow at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.