Obituary of Margaret Lillian Fields

Margaret Gaines Fields, born on June 22, 1945, in Nelson County, Virginia, was the fifth of ten children in the Gaines family. From an early age, she embraced a deep Christian faith that would guide her throughout her life and which she instilled in her children. Raised by her loving parents, Annie Bell Paige and Frederick Douglas Gaines Jr., both of whom have since passed, Margaret's strong belief in God became a cornerstone of her identity. This unwavering faith not only shaped her values and resilience but also inspired those around her, serving as a beacon of hope and strength in her community.

 In her early years, Margaret moved to Bailey’s Crossroads, Virginia where she established a warm and loving home that became a haven for her family. As a devoted mother to three children, and grandmother to three cherished grandchildren, she poured her heart into nurturing them, instilling in them the same values and faith that had guided her throughout her life. Margaret's life was beautifully marked by her strong family bonds; the love she shared with her close-knit family created a legacy of togetherness and support that resonated deeply in their lives. Her unwavering commitment to her family not only strengthened their connections but also fostered an environment where love and admiration flourished.

Margaret dedicated a total of 55 years of remarkable service to Fairfax County, a testament to her unwavering commitment to both professional excellence and community engagement. Margaret Fields began her career with Fairfax County Food Service, demonstrating a steadfast dedication that led to 27 of those years, as a Food Service Manager. Upon retirement from this role, Margaret Fields continued to contribute to Fairfax County by working part-time with the Fairfax County Recreation Department and Fairfax County Police Department, further showcasing her versatile skills and commitment to community and children welfare. She then wanted to stay busy and started working as a government contractor.

Beyond her professional life, Margaret Fields was a dedicated community advocate for various organizations include the Springdale Civic Association, Homeless Shelter. She devoted countless hours to local initiatives and worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for residents. Her efforts were characterized by a genuine passion for service and a deep connection to the community she loved. Margaret became a member of Mount Pleasant Baptist Church in the 1970’s under the pastorate of Dr. Carroll Baltimore. During this time, she joined the Usher Board and faithfully served as a Senior Usher for many years. She is remembered not only for her long and distinguished career but also for her significant contributions to both the workplace and the community. Her loyalty, humility, nonjudgemental nature and willingness to help anyone in need allowed her to make deep connection with many people throughout her journey. She leaves behind a legacy of commitment, leadership, and advocacy that has touched the lives of many.

Margaret Fields departed her temporary home on September 17, 2024; and is survived by three children, Joseph Fields Jr., Monica Fields, and Mirenda Fields-Norfleet (Cassius); three grandchildren, Cashmire McFall (Aaron), Willie Page III, and Ciara Norfleet; two brothers Lance “Jerry” Gaines and Clarence Gaines, and a sister, Shirlee Gaines Hoffman. She has many “Son Babies” to include James Smith, Robert Jackson, Bruce Sellers, Donnie White, Edward Robinson, and Gerard Gardner; God-Daughters Mirenda White and Tina Evans and several others who she loved dearly, and a host of nieces and nephews she adored. She was preceded in death by her brothers, John Edward Gaines, Solomon Gaines, Samuel Gaines, David Gaines, Ray, and Fred Gaines; and her God-Daughters Michele Smith, Myra White and Patricia Smith.