Margaret Irene Elbert

Our Angel, Our Matriarch, Margaret Irene Cornish Elbert ascended into eternal rest on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at home surrounded by her family. Born on December 15, 1930, to the late John Wesley Cornish and Daisy Mae Pinkett Cornish. She was 95 years, Our Beautiful Orchid. She attended Thompsontown Elementary School, graduating from St. Clair High School with the Class of 1947. Mom married the love of her life and man of her dreams, Thomas E. Elbert on October 17, 1952. He preceded her in death on October 6, 1989. They built a life together, in love, laughter and legacy. Mom worked in the farm fields in Rhodesdale, MD, later gaining employment at the Bogash Shirt Factory in Hurlock, MD. She fulfilled her dream of completing courses at Cosmetology School in St. Michaels, MD, passing the board becoming the sole owner and operator of Margaret’s Beauty Parlor at her home. Our Dad hired contractors to build the addition on our family home so the ladies and children of the community could walk out in style. She was a devoted member of Wallace Temple A.M.E Zion Church in Rhodesdale, MD, serving under several capacities; Preacher Stewart, Choir Member, Hospitality/Culinary Committee, Steward Board and Alternate Delegate. Mom was a Foster Parent as well as a Personal Caregiver, working with The Department of Social Services and The Dorchester County Health Department serving as a foster parent in her home and the community. Family meant everything to Mom and her life and love will forever be remembered. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband; her sisters, Dorothy Walker and Frances Young; grandson, Cantrell Johnson Sr; brother in-laws, James Walker and John Young; bonus daughter, Carolyn Demby; nephews, Clarence Pinkett and Emerson Young, Jr. Left to cherish her precious memories are daughters; Darlene Johnson, Thomasena Johnson (Rev. William S. Johnson); grandchildren, Dondrill Johnson Sr., Lionel Farrow (Karanda), and Dr. Jessica Jackson; great-grandchildren, Cantrell Johnson Jr, Dondrill Johnson Jr. (Emily), DaQuonne Johnson, Jahnae Jackson, and Sanijah Johnson; 10 great great-grandchildren; siblings, Delorse Cornish and John Cornish Jr.; foster daughter and cousin, Kenitra Ahmed; niece, Rosalind Jackson; bonus children, Barbara Diane Cooper, James Davis, Gloria Jenkins and Barbara Sherwood-Hill; bonus grandchildren, Annetta Demby-Paige, Chonte Demby-Lewis and Brian Demby; forever friends, Madeline George, Rosalie Wilson, Dorothy Farrare and Gloria Camper and a host of other cousins, relatives and friends that will hold Mom in their hearts. Mom’s cooking ability was unique. She would whip up a three-course meal like magic. Our tastebuds will forever water for her famous applesauce cakes, oyster fritters, soft crabs, codfish cakes, and fresh picked greens. Anyone who visited 401 Nealson Street did not leave the same way they entered. You were met with love, joy, words of wisdom, and a bite to eat. Mom enjoyed people and putting a smile on their faces. With heavy hearts we watched her gently preparing for her new home and new body, especially to be able to walk again. Walk Around Heaven All Day! Mom you will forever be with us, Take your well-deserved rest!

Margaret Irene Elbert

December 15, 1930 - June 17, 2026