CUMMING, MARGUERITE A. (1917-2009) Marguerite A. Cumming, wife of Byron R. Cumming of Douglas, NB, on July 15, 2009, from complications following heart surgery. The daughter of Hartley and Faye (McFarlane) Hawkins, Marguerite was born in Fredericton on November 1, 1917. After attending Provincial Normal School, Marguerite (Miss Hawkins) began her teaching career at the age of 17 in a one room school house in Magundy, NB. Subsequent positions in Lower Prince William, Springhill, Oromocto, and Fredericton allowed Marguerite to guide and positively affect the lives of many young students. Following marriage to Bryon in 1940, Marguerite moved to the Province's north shore, first to Dalhousie and then to Bathurst where two daughters, Bonita and Patricia, were born and raised. It was in Bathurst where the majority of Marguerite's teaching career developed. At Bathurst High School, Marguerite taught both academic and commercial subjects as well as sewing classes at night school before retiring in 1977. During this time Marguerite not only raised a family and taught school, but also managed to acquire two university degrees in Arts and Education from the Universite de Moncton. Summers were spent at the family cottage on the banks of the Saint John River in Douglas, NB where Marguerite and Byron eventually retired upon ending their respective teaching careers. A creative and talented artist, Marguerite produced numerous paintings and sculptures that display the joy she took in the world around her. Marguerite is survived by her husband of 69 years, Byron; two daughters, Bonita (Hallett) and Patricia; son-in-law, Ronald Hallett; nieces, Susan and Janet and sister-in-law, Peggy Hawkins. She was predeceased by her younger brother, Robert Hawkins. No funeral or visitation at Marguerite's request. Donations in memory of Marguerite A. Cumming may be made to the Chalmers Hospital Foundation, New Brunswick Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to the charity of the donor's choice. The family wishes to express their appreciation to the doctor's, RN's, LPN's , nursing students and staff of 3 East at the Chalmers Hospital for the care, concern, and attention they provided to Marguerite during the past few weeks. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com