Margaret Mary Bussey (Massie)

Margaret, who loved to be called "Granny" by her boys, departed her loving family on February 2, 2024. Her beautiful smile, never-ending wit, and infectious laugh lit up the room – every time she exploded through the door. A woman of unrelenting faith, she enthusiastically shared joyful times and tirelessly lifted her family through moments of challenge, trial, and heartache. The glue that held her family together, Margaret's faith constantly gave encouragement, love and comfort, up until the day of her passing.

Margaret was born in Baltimore, MD, on September 8, 1942, to Margaret Lillian and Ryland Massie. As a child, Margaret grew up in Piney River, Virginia where she climbed trees and explored the Blue Ridge Mountains that built her strength, heart, and character. As the daughter of a career Army veteran, she was a patriot who loved her country, believed in hard work, and was determined to contribute. Margaret proudly began working at age 15 behind the candy counter at the Crest Theater in Baltimore, MD. She completed her working career with over 25 years of service at the National Security Agency, first serving as an Administrative Assistant and retiring as a Program Director. She was known for her uncanny ability to anticipate needs, overcome challenges and execute on any mission. She was also admired for her generous heart and commitment to supporting charitable causes and those in need.

Margaret was mother to Margaret Edith Carrico (Bussey). She raised Edie with love and devotion in Pasadena, MD, with her husband of 62 years, Vaughn Lee Bussey. Married on June 1, 1963, Margaret and Vaughn shared a life full of love, some occasional butting of heads, and countless memories. Their story inspires faith and endless commitment.

Margaret will be desperately missed, especially by her grandsons Robert Stevenson Grant and Mathew Lee Carrico. Being part of a military family who was often geographically separated, she learned to play video games with her grandsons to stay virtually connected with them, using the gamer tag "Gamer Granny" aka "Arc Survivor."

One of three children, Margaret is also survived by her sister, Velma Mood, and her nephew, Christopher Mood. She is preceded in death by her beloved sister, Deborah Massie, to whom she was devoted.

A funeral mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa, FL, on February 29, 2024, at 10 a.m. The family is working on an option for virtual attendance; details will be shared here.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Lung Association:

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/interstitial-lung-disease in honor of Margaret Bussey.