Scotts Funeral Home | Richmond, VA
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Obituary For Margaret Purnell Gaines
Margaret P. Gaines, 81 of Richmond, entered eternal life May 23, 2020 after a brief illness. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Gaines, Jr. and her parents, John Sr. and Ethel Purnell. Surviving are her daughters, Renee Gaines, Dawn Hall (Kenneth) and Letitia Gaines; grandchildren, Whitney, Morgan, Thornton (Shayna), Jaren and Jayla; great-grandchildren, Amaya, Miles and Mason; brother, John Purnell, Jr. (Joyce), sister, LaFran Walker (William); other relatives and friends. Remains rest at Scott’s Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. The family will receive friends from 3 - 4 p.m. Sunday, May 31 at Scott’s Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Monday, June 1 at Scott’s Chapel. Rev. Dr. William E. Jackson, Sr. officiating. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery. Live streaming and online guest book at scottsfuneralhome.com
Guest Book
May Peace Be Unto The Gaines Families.
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June 3, 2020 Dear Margaret: I thank you for your friendship, loyalty and knowing exactly what to do. You welcomed me at the Medical College of Virginia's Microbiology Laboratory when I started my graduate studies there (1982) and working in the Laboratory. You welcomed me as your own young sister. You were patient with me. It meant a lot to me. On your days off, you would invite me to breakfast in downtown Richmond. You paid for my breakfast; this was a big deal to me as a student. My daughter Lula was one of your girl scouts. When my son Ditu got married, you drove a long way to attend the wedding to share in the moment. Through all the ups and downs of life we remained friends. Last May, you called me for the last time to check on me. Thank you for your friendship, thoughtfulness, and civic mindedness. I will miss you dearly!! Love, Musau WaKabongo
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John, Joyce and family I know that your hearts are broken At a time like this it is so difficult to bear Just know that we will keep your in our thoughta and will pray that the spirit will bring comfort to you through your memories of your love one and through the love of friends. I did not get the chance to know your sister but the picture tells the story of a wonderful soul. May her spirit and her life' s work be manifested in the those who come after her. Will be talking to you in the days to come.
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John, Joyce and family I know that your hearts are broken At a time like this it is so difficult to bear Just know that we will keep your in our thoughta and will pray that the spirit will bring comfort to you through your memories of your love one and through the love of friends. I did not get the chance to know your sister but the picture tells the story of a wonderful soul. May her spirit and her life' s work be manifested in the those who come after her. Will be talking to you in the days to come.
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My heart is saddened , but It is rejoicing to know that Your loved one Margaret has transitioned to her heavenly home. Margaret was such a beautiful person . She loved people and she was loved by all. We will truly miss her wonderful spirit an8p5CQ79d we pray that God will continue to sustain you during this very difficult time. You have our deepest sympathy! Peacefully - Beverly Whitaker-Braxton and Family
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My deepest and sincerest condolence to the Gaines family. I've known Ms. Margaret since I was a child. There was not a time that I saw her that she didnt' have a a smile on her face! She will truly be missed by her family. God has plucked a beautiful flower for his garden. Love, Joanell Lawson
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To the Gaines family,My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.May your memories bring you comfort. Love Margaret Porter Moore
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To the Gaines family, we will miss the love and friendship that we always got from Mrs Gaines. From Barbra and Karl Gray
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Deepest condolences and heartfelt prayers to your family during this most difficult time. Mrs. Gaines was a pillar in the community and touched many lives. She and her husband have left a legacy of community service and love. LaTonja Wright, Mount Tabor Baptist Church
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Our condolences and prayers are with you and your family as we hear of the passing of our dear friend, Mrs. Margaret Gaines. Our hearts are sadden, but at the same time our hearts rejoice in knowing that Heaven as gained an Angel. We've been knowing Mrs. Gaines for over forty years, she has seen my olderest brother, myself and my younger twin sisters grow up and has been one of those people in our villages that has instilled great principles in our lives. From being a great mentor, troop leader, church mother, youth leader, friend and just another mother to us...Mrs. Gaines! She lived a great life and has left behind a legacy that her family can be proud of. We thank you for allowing my family to share her with us. We will also miss the love, hugs, kisses, and her corrections in love. Even though we didn't see her that much, but in our travels throughout the city...no matter where we seen her out in public it was like our lives never skipped a beat. We loved her like family. May God strengthen you all in your time of sorrow and grant you Peace to get through the days ahead. Love the Gregory Family (Nannie, Jonathan, Michelle, Jessica and Jennifer)
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Thank you for being a light and a shinning example.
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My prayers are with the Gaines Famiky, your mother was a BEAUTIFUL person with a lovely spirit. She will be missed by so many. Nathaniel Mitchell
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First my deepest sympathy to the family! Ms. Gaines......! What can I say she was one of a kind. I met her when I was about 13 with now being almost 40 she was still my girl! Thank you for opening your life to me with so much love. Every milestone you were there in some form of fashion. I learned so much from you and all of the ladies a FBC. I wish you were able to meet my babygirl Zoey in the flesh but I'm at peace with it because I know you're one of the angels that will watch over her. I'm going to miss your personality, smile, love and your presence. One things for certain you left your mark and lots of memories for us to relish on. Heaven gained a true gem who is going to bring some sure excitement. Until we meet again~ Sheba
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Granny G how I am feeling no words can explain. You were like a second mother to me and treated Zaria and I like your own. You taught me so much and gave me opportunities I never dreamed of. Thank you for everything you did and watch over your loved ones. To the family my prayers are with you today and always. Sleep peacefully Granny G
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I've known Mrs Margaret Gaines since I was a young kid when she joined the Young Women's Christian League of which my mother Jean H. Trimiew was a founder.I also saw her during girl scout cookie pick-up for East end churches, she at Fourth Baptist and my mother at St Paul's Baptist where she was the coordinator of girl scouts. We will all miss her. May God continue to bless and keep your family during these times. Aubrey Trimiew III.
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I was saddened to hear of the passing of your loved one, Margaret Purnell Gaines. Her smile could light up a room. I always appreciated her kindness. You have my deepest sympathy. Prayerfully, Barbara Chapman
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Dear Gaines Family I'm so very sorry for the loss of your mother. I've known Margaret most of my life as she was friends with my sister Melvin Gray. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Leroy King.
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Tish, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time . The Rose Family.
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My deepest sympathy to my Red Hat Society Sisters Tish, Dawn and Family I will truly miss Margaret , our phone conversations and most of all our Virginia Crowns meetings The fact that our brothers were good friends made our relationship very special God bless each of you Brenda Carter McClary
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To the family, please except my sympathy for the loss of your loved one. She was truly a great classmate, fellow church member, and friend. God Bless you all- Marian Smith Harris
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Sending my deepest condolences and prayers to Tish and family. We know that God is many things to us all, but may you find that HE is a true comforter and peace giver during this time. Sending you my love and ligh -Calisha Djeukeng
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With deepest sympathy to the Gaines family. Peace amd love; God takes care of us all. Your Mother will truly be missed at the Fourth Baptist Church and community. Blessings to each of you. Ola Hawkins and family
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To the Gaines family: The Astoria Beneficial Club sends out its condolences to the entire family and their friends. Mrs. Gaines will forever remain in our hearts and souls. She was a wonderful person with a loving and kindred spirit. We will keep the family in our prayers during this difficult time and we're here to assist the family any way we can. Peace and Blessings, The Astoria Beneficial Club- Keith W. Hicks President
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To My School mate and friend Margaret,I will always remember the times we spent together. I send my Prayers,Love and Condolences to the family.
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Dearest Dawn, Renee and Family, Our deepest sympathy in the passing of your mother. Mrs. Gaines was always one of my favorite childhood friend's mothers, since Dawn and I met while attending Bellevue Elementary. As we got older, I admired her tireless devotion as a Girl Scout Leader and Council Volunteer. She has left a lasting impact on the lives of many girls and women and strong legacy. Praying for all of you and that your sweet memories give you strength during this difficult time and in the days ahead. Love, Angela Rowe and Family
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Dawn, Renee, Tish and family... Mama Gaines was the rock of Jeter Ave. I so adore her and can still see that beautiful smile! She always asked me about Ruff... a very thoughtful person. Just know we are here for you. We love you much! Call if you need anything!
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Margaret, your light and laughter will be missed by so many and you will remain a happy memory of my childhood. Stephanie Coleman Watkins, Atlanta
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Dawn, Titia, and family, I will truly miss seeing your mom at the WFBC on fifth Sundays and the monthly events. She was a gracious lady and had a radiant smile that lit a room. She answered when God called her home. Love, LaMone Lewis, CFS
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Dear Gaines family...we have been so blessed to have had Mama Gaines in our lives for 20 years...always a sweetheart to me..always kind ...always there to listen... my heart is so heavy, but my love will always stay true to all of the wonderful memories and conversations we have had over all these years... I wish you peace and strength throughout these times..love always...Jean Randolph
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To Dawn, Tish, and family: May God's peace and comfort be with you as you celebrate Ms. Margaret's beautiful life. Yvonne P. Haynes
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To Dawn,an Renee,Latisha sorry for your lost my fonderes memories of your mom was the trips we went on with my aunt Ethel,an the fun times my girls was in the Girl Scouts at fourth Baptist.I will truly miss her kindness an friendship.Geri Hall
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Remembering your loved one as a devoted classmate we share your personal grief. Although sympathy is a small consolation we extend our heartfelt sympathy. Precious memories linger of your loved one. Lonnie Liston and Louise Smith
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My love for Margaret is too deep to express, but I can say that she meant a great deal to my family and me. Margaret and I were in each other's lives for over sixty years, and she was a giver of herself, her talents, and her wonderful laughter. I send my love and condolences to Renee, Dawn, Tish, and the Gaines and Purnell families. ~Delia (Aunt Delia)
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Dawn, Tish, Renee - You all have our deepest sympathy! You know how much your mom meant to us, and how long and strongly our families have been connected on many levels. We know how proud she was of you and her grandchildren, and have no doubt that you will keep her memory alive. Love to your entire family. John and Connie Galloway; Lena Hill and family
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Condolences to the Gaines family my heart and prayers are with you all. Mrs Gaines welcomed me in at an early age as one of her Girl Scout Leaders at Fourth Baptist Church. Mrs Gaines was always so caring, loving, soft spoken and helpful. She was like a best Aunt ever. She will be greatly missed and always in my heart and mind.
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Dear Gaines Family, Mrs. Gaines welcomed me to the neighborhood, and was a wonderful neighbor, and friend. She looked out for me, and called to check on me even after I moved away. I miss our front yard talks. She is truly missed. God Bless your family. Love, Adonica
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Beautiful lady inside and out. She and her brother John have caring spirits. I extend my condolences to the family. My niece used her church for her wedding some years ago which I had the privilege of officiating and partially directing. Margaret assisted us in so many ways. It was a tremendous success because of her kindness and helpful suggestions. Will miss you at my sorority's annual event!! Loved you much!! Dr.Lena Hicks Thompson 6A22BD
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To the Gaines family: Our condolences to you and your extended family and friends. Mrs. Gaines will forever remain in our hearts. You are in our prayers during this difficult time and we're here for you in any way you may need us. Blessings, The Nicholson Family ~ Anthony, Cheryl, Brendon & Brittany
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To the Gaines family-We will greatly miss Mrs. Margaret too. She was a lovely person who always had a smile. Cherish all the beautiful memories and keep her close in your hearts. With Love, Charles and Nannie Walker
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To the Gaines family, I know your hearts are truly sadden, as with mine. Margaret was such a special person. She will certainly be missed. Violet Claxton
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To Renee, Dawn and Tish: Margaret was a jewel and will be greatly missed, her contagious smile was constantly visible. Please remember, she is not dead, she is just away because her memories will always remain in you heart. God will take care of you in this difficult time, Trust Him and believe in Him. Rosena Tiller & Family
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To the family of our dear Margaret Gaines, we want to express our sincere sympathy for the loss of this lovely lady. She was truly a class act. May she rest in peace until we meet again. Sincerely, Vanessa and Sylvia Marie(AKA Frankie) Barley.
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Continued prayers to Dawn, Renee and Tish.Your mom may not be here in the flesh but she will always be here in spirit, memories and your heart. Take comfort in knowing she is in a wonderful place with your dad and they both are at peace.
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To Renee, Dawn and Tish and Family:We are praying for You doing this difficult time. Ms. Margaret was a Class Act...First Class Lady. We will see her on the other side. Mrs. Gayles Parker Moore Antuane Ramon Moore
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My sincere condolences to the family, Margaret will be truly missed and remembered. Wishing you(her Girls) comfort in your time of bereavement. Be Blessed Mastine Braswell
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So glad that I knew you in this lifetime. Thank you for being so good to my daughters Erika Gladden Moss and Joy Gladden and being such a good scout leader for so long. Rest in paradise.
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An excellent Girl Scout Leader who demonstrates great character to all young ladies as she guided and lived the GS Promise: On my honor, I will try: To serve God and my country, To help people at all times, and to live by the Girl Scout Law. She will be missed.
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To Renee', Dawn, and Tish and family: Please know that we are praying for each of you. Your mother was a special gift from God and in His wisdom decided to give her rest from her labors. As believers we know that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Rejoice in knowing she is with the Lord. We are praying that God will grant you His peace during this difficult time. God's peace will sustain you during the time. We pray God's continued blessings upon each of you. Deacon Gerard and Judy Dabney
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To Letitia and the Gaines family, I am praying for each of you. Ms. Gaines was always smiling and such a joy to be around. God has truly gained an angels. My you find strength in the Lord. Carol Davis
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My deepest sympathy to the Gaines family. She will be truly missed. I am so grateful for our time we've shared over the years. I will forever cherish her exemplary leadership and commitment to girl scouts. -Ja'Tia Hamlin
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To the Gaines Family : I am so sorry for your loss of your mom. May God Blessing and Favor continue to be on, in and around the family. Psalm 34:18 . Donnell Family
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Mrs. Margaret will surely be missed by the women of the Fifth Sunday Bible class of the Greater Richmond area. Her smile brightened everyone's day. Our prayers are with the family. From the Women's Fellowship Ministry of The Good Shepherd Baptist Church.
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Her spirit and smile will never be forgotten. Blessings and condolences to the family. Lawrence C. Manning
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To the Family...my childhood friend has earned her wings..will miss her smiling face....as one that have lost family I know your feelings...know your loss is the loss of your many friends...keep her memories in your heart...look to the Lord for strength...be encouraged... Love, Frances Snead Robinson and Family
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To the Gaines Family, Cheryl and I were sad to learn of the passing of Mrs. Gaines. Margaret will be truly missed. We remember her legacy as a supportive member and committed worker in the development of the youth of Fourth Baptist Church. Our prayers and love go out to you all during this difficult time. God will take care of you! Pastor James & Cheryl Miller Atlanta , Ga
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Valerie Walker Brooks
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To Renee, Dawn and Tish and Family: Your mother was such an inspiration to me as Precinct Chief Of Elections, as President of 5th Sunday Richmond & Vicinity Women's Bible Class, and for her work at Fourth Baptist. I share your pain and heartache and I will truly miss her. Look to GOD Our Heavenly Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, and you will realize she has passed, but not lost, and find your comfort.
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My deepest sympathy to our Chief at Election poll 304. I will truly miss your smile and leadership. To the family, my condolences and a heart filled with love at your difficult time. Rest Our Beautiful Angel! Love, Deborah Simmons & Family
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So sorry to hear about your loss. Ms. Margaret was always so happy and she had the most affectionish smile. We traveled many times together with our little group and enjoyed mutual company. May you allow precious memories to substain you as you go through this journey and difficult. Trust God and he will bring you through. May the prepetual light shine upon her.
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My true friend is gone she is at peace
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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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