Margaret Sullivant Brown Jourdan

Margaret Sullivant Brown Jourdan passed away on December 24, 2023, in Oxford, MS. Born April 26, 1956, in Kosciusko, Ms, Margaret was the youngest child of Margaret and Henry Sullivant. There spent many happy days with her horse “Sugarfoot” before moving to Holly Springs at age 7, after her father’s passing. She was a graduate of Marshall Academy and Ole Miss where she received her degree in Elementary Education and was a member of Chi Omega sorority. At Ole Miss she made lifelong friends that were among her greatest treasures.

After Ole Miss, Margaret returned to Holly Springs where she raised her daughters, known to all in town as the “Brown girls.” The home Margaret created was always full of friends and children — and truly never a dull moment. The antics of the “Brown girls” provided everyone a constant source of laughter and entertainment. Margaret would host her many dear friends and those of her children around the green kitchen island, where lively conversation was a steady companion to the joyous chaos of raising 3 independently minded ladies. Margaret’s stories and life lessons from those years in Holly Springs will continue to shape and influence generations of the Brown girls’ children and grandchildren.

Margaret’s gift for connecting with children extended beyond her home. She taught elementary students for over 35 years with her signature spunk and personality that could hold even the most wayward child’s attention. She was always surrounded by children; they were drawn to her fun and mischievous nature with wonder and awe. Ever the learner and go-getter, she returned to Ole Miss and earned her Masters in Literacy Education after her children were grown. She continued her career in the Mississippi Public Schools as a Reading Specialist until her retirement. Margaret was also a vibrant member of many organizations in Holly Springs, including the Thursday Club, the Holly Springs Garden Club, where she served as President, and many school and church committees; Margaret was a devoted member of the Methodist Church. A naturalist at heart, her favorite activities included fishing, horseback riding, gardening, yoga, and Ole Miss sports. She loved sharing her vegetables with her grandchildren and teaching them about the wonders of God’s world. Her greatest joys included having fun with her friends – and she was so fun! Margaret loved to be with her friends and was always planning a new activity or adventure. Many times the adventure was just being with her and laughing at her many southern colloquialisms and witty observations.

In her most recent years, Margaret moved to Oxford where she enjoyed reconnecting with college friends who embraced her with love and open arms. She cherished spending time with her new and old friends. In Oxford, she continued her lifelong commitment to Elementary Education by working for the University as a mentor to Education students. She thrived in the familiar position of being surrounded by young bright college students. Margaret continued this fulfilling work through her last year.

Many of Margaret’s numerous accomplishments and activities were engaged amid the backdrop of her 16 year battle with cancer. Never one to be told “no”, Margaret persevered with graceful determination in the face of significant health events. Her zest for life has inspired many and is a lasting gift to her friends and family. We were blessed to witness her steadfast faith and strength. Margaret was a faithful Christian. She loved and took great comfort in her Lord through her courageous battle with cancer. A true feminist before feminism was cool, she relied upon her Lord and herself for encouragement and motivation. Underneath her striking beauty was a steely resolve that inspired one of her beloved son-in-laws to designate her “tough as a nickel steak” . Margaret’s determined resilience and rebellious spirit were matched only by her authentic charm and optimism. She loved to have fun and lived each day to the fullest.

Margaret is survived by her daughters and their husbands that she loved as her own children, and 8 adoring grandchildren: Lynn and Jonathan Rowe (children Jack and Lindy) of Memphis; Margie and Brandon Havens (children Davis, Dabs, Sullivant, and Livie) of Oxford; and Dabney and Wilson McManus (children Virginia and William) of Denver. She is also survived by her devoted older brother Dr. Henry Sullivant (Terre) of Memphis, and precious friends who have loved and taken great care of her throughout her lengthy illness. She is predeceased by her parents and brothers Lacy Martin and Dr. Ben Martin.

A celebration of her life will be Thursday, December 28 at 2 p.m. at Holly Springs First Methodist Church. Margaret’s family will receive visitors beginning at 1 p.m. at the church. Following the service, Margaret’s family will host a reception at the Kate Freeman Clark Art Gallery in Holly Springs. Expressions of sympathy or memorial contributions in Margaret’s memory may be sent to Holly Springs First Methodist Church, P.O. Box 147, Holly Springs, MS 38635. Waller Funeral Home of Oxford, MS, is in charge of funeral arrangements.