Margaret S. Griffin

Margaret Starkey Griffin “Peg” age 74, of Bel Air, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. Born at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, she was the beloved daughter of the late John Edward Starkey and Elfriede (Reuss) Starkey.

Margaret spent her childhood moving frequently with her parents as her dad served in the military. This upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for resilience and adaptability. Margaret went on to become a compassionate and dedicated Registered Nurse. She worked at Johns Hopkins Hospital and concluded her career at Father Martin’s Ashley.

Margaret faced profound heartbreak with the loss of her infant son, Michael Starkey, who passed away at only four months old due to complications of SIDS. She bounced back from sepsis in 2013, when she had open heart surgery to replace her aortic valve. Her body never fully recovered from this difficult event, and she was left with difficult movement. She remained home with her family with some hospital stays. During this difficult time, she found great strength and comfort in the support of her church family at Joppatowne Christian Church, which remained an important part of her life.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Sandra Espinosa; and four cherished grandchildren: Jeffrey Pollard, Maria Espinosa, Noxxis Espinosa, and Hope Espinosa. Margaret was preceded in death by her infant son, Michael Starkey.

Margaret had a special love for her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy. She found comfort and companionship in her faithful dog, Flash, who stayed loyally by her side through the last year. She also had a fondness for lighthouses and enjoyed watching children’s movies—her favorite being the most recent version of The Phantom of the Opera.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Margaret’s memory may be made to: Joppatowne Christian Church, 725 Trimble Road, PO Box 489, Joppa, MD 21085.

An online guestbook is available at mccomasfuneralhome.com