Margaret McBride Midgley

Margaret McBride Midgley passed away peacefully on Friday, December 19, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her most, after a courageous journey with cancer. She was 63. 

Born on June 21, 1962 - the Summer Solstice - Margaret brought light, steadiness, and care into the lives of all who knew her. She was the daughter of Candida Diaz and Russell William McBride and one of twelve siblings raised in Wilmington, Delaware, where the values of family, service, and resilience were deeply rooted. 

Margaret was the beloved wife of Ned Midgley, with whom she shared nearly 40 years of marriage. She was a devoted and loving mother to her two sons, Charles Edward IV (“Chase”), 29, and Russell William, 25, a cherished sister, aunt, and friend. Margaret was known for her quiet strength, warmth, and unwavering presence - someone others could always count on. 

She is survived by her siblings Maria, Francesca, Monica, Anna, John, Chris, and Marcus. She was predeceased by her twin sister Angelina, sisters Candida McBride Speakman and Patricia Burch (“Tish”), and her brother Russell McBride (“Tuffy”). 

Margaret graduated from St. Mark’s High School before earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Delaware in 1985. She began her career in healthcare working in hospitals and doctors' offices in New York, Boston, and then at the National Institutes of Health in Washington, D.C. Driven by a deep commitment to improving patient care, she returned to school and earned a Master’s Degree in Clinical Research Administration from New York Medical College in 1999. 

For more than 25 years, Margaret managed large-scale pharmaceutical clinical trials primarily with Boehringer Ingelheim, playing a critical role in advancing medical research. At her core, she was a caregiver—whether tending to patients, supporting colleagues, or being a constant, loving presence for her family. Her life’s work reflected her compassion, intelligence, and dedication to the well-being of others. 

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 12:00 noon at St. Ann Parish, 2013 Gilpin Avenue, Wilmington, Delaware, 19806. There will be a celebration of life following the service. 

Margaret will be remembered for her grace, her generosity of spirit, and the profound love she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the family she cherished. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Rockwood Park and Museum, one of Margaret’s favorite places. The easiest way to donate to Rockwood’s ongoing preservation efforts is through the Rockwood Park Preservation Society (RPPS). Donations may be made at https://www.rockwoodpreservation.org/donate.

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