Margaret Quay

In Loving Memory of Margaret "Mikie" Quay

Born on June 24, 1960, to the late Francis Quay, Sr. and Freda Kessay-Quay in Whiteriver, Arizona.

Margaret was raised in North Side of Whiteriver, Arizona. She participated in the Mormon placement program, but later decided her heart was at home and returned to Whiteriver, where she attended grade school. Margaret graduated from Alchesay High School, the class of 1978, and continued on to Cochise Community College.

Margaret began her career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Fort Apache Agency, and retired as a Purchasing Agent. She was proud of her tenure with B.I.A., and dedicated many hours in her capacity. Margaret was part of an elite group of women, who worked for several months straight during the Rodeo-Chediski Fire. They were responsible for ordering equipment, meals,and supplies for the firefighters and support staff, as well as processing payroll.

After retirement, Margaret lived a quiet life and enjoyed her independence. You would see her taking a grand marshal cruise to the post office or to her playhouse, the casino. Margaret is known for her humble service, by cooking for many families during hard times, celebrations, or ceremonies. She always cooked more than enough food, and would call around inviting people to pick up a plate. Margaret was the family baker and loved spoiling everyone with her baked goods or dinner rolls. She welcomed you with her beautiful smile and made sure you had something to eat or drink.

Margaret loved to dance, especially when her cousin Chuck and his band would play. She didn't care if she was still wearing her apron, you'd see her snapping her little fingers and twirling around with the most beautiful smile. Margaret's greatest love is her only daughter, her only child, Linnea. She loved her daughter immensely and did whatever she could to provide for her family of two. Margaret spoke highly of her daughter and would light up whenever she shared news of Linnea. They were a team, the Quay girls, and it was rare to see them apart.In January of 2025, Margaret experienced a medical emergency and their lives took an unexpected turn. Their roles switched, and Linnea had to learn how to tend to her mother's medical condition while working and taking care of their homes. Their tragedy brought them closer together and closer to God, as they often prayed together. There were many relatives and friends who stood with them in prayer and support, hoping for a miracle and healing.

Sadly, on the night of February 22, 2026, at 8:05 a.m. Margaret's courageous spirit quietly passed into Heaven. Margaret was baptized and confirmed at the Canyon Day Lutheran Church, and before her passing she was blessed with her last rites and committed back to Heavenly Father.

Margaret will be missed immensely by her daughter, her many relatives, and her many friends.

Margaret is survived by her daughter, Linnea Quay

She raised her Nephew: Jaylon Quay

Godchildren: Kasey Wyatt, Warren "Sugar Ray" Beatty, and Martina Hawkins

Siblings: Denver Quay, Ann (DawSee) Skidmore, Loretta (Floyd) Goklish, Theda

(Gerald) Nosie, Francis "Butch" Quay, Jr., and Karen (Troy) Henry