Margaret "Maggie" Ann Freeman Vernon

Margaret “Maggie” Ann Freeman Vernon, 93, of Noblesville, passed away on December 2, 2025, at The Crossings of Noblesville, leaving behind a legacy shaped by resilience, elegance, adventure, and deep devotion to the people fortunate enough to know her.

Born on October 7, 1932, in Dayton, Ohio, Maggie was raised in Sheridan, Indiana, by her paternal grandparents, Thomas Ora and Mahala Alice Freeman, surrounded by the lively, loving chaos of thirteen aunts and uncles. Her early years were marked by both challenge and community, experiences that shaped her strength and independence throughout her life.

Shortly after high school, she married her childhood sweetheart, Keith W. O’Connor, on May 19, 1951. Their marriage carried them to various military bases across the country before Keith was tragically killed in Korea on June 29, 1954. Keith’s death marked a profound loss for Maggie, yet she carried herself forward with quiet courage and determination that defined her early adulthood.

Life brought her a second great love when she married James M. “Jim” Vernon on June 8, 1958. The two built a beautiful life in Noblesville, sharing 56 years of marriage filled with loyalty, tradition, humor, and deep companionship. Together they raised four children - Connie Vernon, Tom Vernon, Ann (Michial) Huber, and Bob (Amanda) Vernon - and step-children, Butch (Nancy) Vernon and Candy (Cody) Williams.

Maggie’s family grew across generations, and being “Grandma Maggie” became one of her greatest joys. She is survived by nine grandchildren - Carrie (Michael) Tipton, Celli Spencer, Sarah (Chris) Fannin, Chandler (Andrew) Jessup, Ryan Barnes, Mila Vernon, Maddie Vernon, Ivy Vernon, and Zoe Vernon - and five great-grandchildren: Brady and Briana Spencer, Isla and Liv Fannin, and Milana Vernon. Each of them carries pieces of her - her warmth, her style, her storytelling, and her stubborn charm.

Maggie lived a life full of purpose and curiosity. As a young adult, she was active in her community, participating in 4-H Merry Makers and Job’s Daughters. She served on the Fashion Board of Block’s Department Store in Indianapolis and later became a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. Maggie was President of the local Home Demonstration Club from 1959 until 1966. In 1960, Maggie was elected chairman of the Hamilton County Unit of the American Cancer Society. She was also involved in Delta Sigma Kappa Sorority and alongside Jim, enjoyed evenings with the Promenaders, a dinner/dance club that brought joy into their social life.

Her career path reflected her adventurous spirit and work ethic. As a young widow, she boldly stepped into the world as a Trans World Airlines (TWA) stewardess, stationed in New York City during the glamorous golden age of air travel. She often spoke of the remarkable people she met, including Redd Foxx, and the unforgettable moment she received the Key to Kentucky from Colonel Sanders. Maggie later worked for the family business, Vernon Oil Company, and continued her career in retail with roles at Lazarus, Jacobsen’s, Saks, and Chico’s, where she shared her impeccable taste and love of conversation with customers and friends.

Maggie was, in every sense, a complex and compelling woman. She overcame a difficult childhood, navigated profound loss, raised a big, busy family, and still managed to maintain a signature style that was entirely her own. Her cousins, nieces, and nephews remember her visits with gifts in hand. Her children cherished the chance to know her more deeply in her later years, especially as dementia softened some of her edges and brought new closeness. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will forever remember Jell-O desserts, her famous punch, the constant closed-captioning on every TV, and her unwavering devotion to chocolate and cheeseburgers.

She is preceded in death by her brother, Robert F. Freeman; her step-children, Butch Vernon and Candy Williams; and her beloved husband, Jim Vernon.

Maggie’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Five Star Residences of Noblesville, especially the nursing team who cared so tenderly for “Miss Maggie,” and to Paradigm Hospice Care, particularly Kim Stephens, for their compassion and support during her final months.

A short service for close friends and family will be held at Good Shepherd Chapel on December 22, 2025, at 3 p.m., located on the grounds of Oaklawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Riley Children’s Hospital, Pretty Passionate Hands or The American Cancer Society.

Condolences: www.randallroberts.com