Margaret Shippen MacIlvaine Robbins

Born on September 27, 1921 to Francis and Irene MacIlvaine, Peggy grew up with a deep sense of service and commitment to others. She graduated from Kent Place School in 1940 and went on to attend Wellesley College. She cultivated a lifelong love of learning and community engagement. Peggy’s generosity and financial support helped hardworking students to achieve their educational goals.

During World War II, Peggy answered her country’s call by joining the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES), serving with distinction throughout the duration of the war. During her service she had the opportunity to interact with Eleanor Roosevelt and Helen Keller. Her dedication and patriotism were a source of great pride for her family and all who knew her. After the war, Peggy worked as a secretary in the import/export division of WR Grace where her proficiency in French and working knowledge of Spanish was an asset.

On March 25, 1950, Peggy married Charles Robbins, beginning a partnership marked by mutual respect, shared values, a love of history and a desire to promote educational opportunities. Together, they built a life centered on family, faith, and service.

Peggy was an active and cherished member of her community. She served as President of the Garden Club of the Oranges, preserving natural landscapes while nurturing both gardens and friendships. Her passion for gardening was evident in the flowers and vegetables she cultivated in her own home and in the communities she touched. As a Deacon at the First Presbyterian Church of the Oranges, she offered compassion and guidance to her congregation, many of whom still remember her witty humor. Peggy was also a proud member of the Colonial Dames, New Jersey Chapter, honoring her family’s legacy and American history.

Peggy was an enthusiastic and devoted choir member. After her first solo at the age of 16, she sang in numerous church choirs and larger events including participating in the Ocean Grove Choir Festival for many years.

Peggy’s love for Cape Cod was a defining part of her life. She delighted in opening the Cape house to family and friends, creating a welcoming space where generations could gather, play, and develop lifelong relationships. Her home at the Cape became a cherished haven, filled with laughter, love, and the joy of togetherness.

Peggy loved color, painting and people. She continued to paint and gift her personal artwork throughout her lifetime. Her priorities were defined by generosity, leadership, and unwavering commitment to service. She is lovingly remembered by her children: Margaret (Reta), Charles (Charlie), Virginia, Keith, and Thomas (Tom). She was a proud and loving relative within a large family, cherishing each new generation and the joy they brought to her life.

She is survived by her two younger brothers, William Rodman MacIlvaine and Christopher Ingraham MacIlvaine.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the many organizations she so faithfully served.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dunwoody Village Residents Association (3500 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073), where gifts will support their employee scholarship program and employee appreciation fund, or to the Village Improvement Society of Dennis (https://www.villageimprovementsocietyofdennisma.com/).

Peggy’s legacy of kindness, hospitality, and spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.