Mrs. Margaret L. Survance, known lovingly as Margaret, age 88, of Fairfield, Il, formerly of Robinson, IL, passed from this life on August 17, 2026, at the home of her sister, Lois Eckleberry, in Fairfield, after a long period of declining health, and she entered the presence of her Lord with the quiet dignity and faith that marked her days.
Margaret was born on September 1, 1937, in Grayville, Illinois, to Orval Leo Hawkins and Viola May (Knight) Hawkins, both deceased. She grew up with the values of hard work, faith, and family that would guide her throughout her life. She graduated from Albion High School with the Class of 1955, carrying forward the promise of a young woman who would go on to serve others with grace, strength, and steadfast devotion.
On June 16, 1956, Margaret married her forever love, Robert K. “Bob” Survance, who preceded her in death on February 16, 2001. Their marriage was built on commitment, love, and shared purpose, and together they raised a family that became the joy of her heart. She is survived by her sons, Mick (Carol) Survance of Roselle, Il, and Joe (Debra) Survance of Cumming, GA. She also leaves behind her sister, Mrs. Lois Eckleberry and her husband Harry of Fairfield, Illinois, along with her cherished grandchildren, Patrick (Holly) Survance of Lombard, IL, Dakota Survance of Detroit, MI, and Carly Survance of Cumming, GA. Her legacy continues through her great-granddaughters, Emily and Penny Survance, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will remember her with deep affection. Also surviving are two sisters-in-law, Connie Bliss-Hawkins and Jane Ellen Hawkins-Hoff.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers Thomas and Robert Hawkins and sister Catherine “Katie” Survance and her husband, Curt Survance.
Margaret lived a life of faithful service in her work and in her community. She retired from Victor Dana Corporation, where she served as an assemblyman in the packaging and shipping department. Before that, she managed the restaurant and the 19th Hole at Quail Creek Country Club in Robinson, Illinois. Earlier in her career, she managed the Robin-Aire Bowling Lanes in Robinson, Illinois, and worked as a waitress at the Persimmon Lounge in the former Woodworth Hotel in Robinson. In every place she served, Margaret brought reliability, kindness, and a strong work ethic that earned the respect of those around her. She understood that honest labor is a blessing, and she carried out her responsibilities with a spirit that reflected both humility and excellence.
Above all, Margaret was a Christian whose life testified to the goodness of God. She was among the founding members of Highland Avenue Baptist Church, where her faith was not merely spoken but lived out in faithful attendance, loving fellowship, and devoted service. She was an amazing cook, and for many years she prepared the Wednesday night fellowship meals at the church. Through that ministry, she nourished bodies and encouraged hearts, creating a place where people felt welcomed, cared for, and strengthened in the Lord. Her kitchen and her table became extensions of her testimony, and many were blessed by her generosity and her gift for making others feel at home.
Margaret’s life reminds us that a faithful life does not need to be loud to be powerful. It can be found in a meal prepared with love, a family raised with care, a church served with devotion, and a daily walk with God that shines in ordinary moments. She lived with the kind of steady faith that leaves a lasting imprint on everyone it touches. Her journey encourages us to trust God in every season, to serve with gladness, and to love deeply while we are given time on this earth.
As the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Margaret’s life reflected that sacred truth. She fought her battles with courage, she finished her course with grace, and she kept the faith that sustained her through every chapter of her life. Her family and friends will remember her not only for what she did, but for the spirit with which she did it, and for the quiet strength of a woman who trusted God through it all.
Though she will be deeply missed, we give thanks for the gift of Margaret’s life and for the many ways she blessed others. Her memory will remain a source of comfort, inspiration, and gratitude. May those who loved her find peace in the promise of Christ, who said, “I am the resurrection, and the life.” In that promise, we commend Margaret’s soul to the mercy and eternal love of God, confident that she now rests in perfect peace.
Funeral services for Margaret L. Survance will be conducted at 2:00 pm Friday August 21, 2026, in the Pulliam Funeral Home in Robinson, IL with Pastor Dwight McDaniel officiating. Interment will immediately follow the funeral in the Oak Grove Cemetery, rural Palestine, IL. Visitation will be held from 12:00 noon until the time of the funeral at 2:00 pm on Friday August 21, 2026, at Pulliam Funeral Home in Robinson, IL
The family suggests memorial contributions to the Highland Avenue Baptist Church, 400 W. Highland Avenue, Robinson, IL 62454, with envelopes available at the funeral home.
Comments