A Life Story
Margaret Waters Lanier, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 16th, 2026. Born on March 15th, 1929, in Nevils, Georgia, Margaret had recently celebrated her 97th birthday, surrounded by her loving family in her beloved home in Savannah, Georgia. Margaret was a dedicated homemaker whose remarkable culinary skills were best known for her famous eggnog, and her kitchen was always filled with enticing aromas and warmth. She had a passion for cooking and baking, and she found great joy in these acts of love, not only during the holidays but all year round. Margaret also delighted in shopping outings and enjoyed dining out with family and friends, treasuring the companionship and laughter they shared. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Jack Russell Lanier Sr.; her parents, Troy E. Waters and Nora Lee Waters; her granddaughter, Jessica Ransome; her daughter-in-law, Jill Lanier; and her brothers, Talmedge Waters and Harold Waters. Margaret's legacy of love and devotion is carried on by her surviving family: her two daughters, Lynne Lopez and Michelle (Damon) Leopold; her two sons, Archie (Patricia Rahn) Lanier and Rusty Lanier. She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Lindsey (Shannon) Bancroft, Brett (Jennifer) Lanier, Blake (Karina) Lanier, Hannah Lanier, and Tyler Leopold, along with ten adored great-grandchildren: Brittany, Nathan, Collin, Grayson, Benjamin, Whittney, Lyla, Wilder, and J.J., and Skyler. Margaret is also survived by her sister, Alceone (Charles) Williams, and her brother, Jimmy Waters. The family will receive friends for visitation at Baker McCullough Funeral Home, Hodgson Memorial Chapel in Savannah, Georgia, on Monday, September 21st, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A funeral service will follow from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, celebrating Margaret's life and legacy. A committal service will take place at 2:00 pm at Brooklet Cemetery in Brooklet, GA, where Margaret will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband. Arrangements are under the care of Baker McCullough Funeral Home, Hodgson Memorial Chapel. Margaret’s family invites all who knew her to join in commemorating a life well-lived, marked by unwavering love and dedication to her family. Margaret Waters Lanier will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for her kindness, her culinary delights, and the deep love she had for her family and friends. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege to know her.