Margie Ruth Burroughs

Margie Burroughs July 24, 1936 – February 9, 2025

On July 24, 1936, in Houston, Texas, Emmett and Gladys Samford welcomed a little girl who would grow into one of the most warm, loving, and joy-filled people this world has ever known—Margie Ruth Samford. From an early age, her love for Jesus and for people was evident. Even as a young teenager, she was already serving the Lord, holding children’s events in her backyard, even hosting her own Vacation Bible School. Her heart for ministry began early and never wavered.

Margie grew up playing and later teaching piano at Kashmere Gardens Assembly of God, where she formed a lifelong friendship with Jimmie Lou. Little did she know that Jimmie’s older brother, Howard, would one day become the love of her life. At 16, Margie captured Howard’s heart, and three years later, she became his forever. They were married on January 28, 1956, and spent sixty-two incredible years together, serving the Lord hand in hand in a partnership that was truly remarkable.

Margie was elegant, classy, and absolutely beautiful, both inside and out. She had a way of making everyone feel welcomed and loved, and she collected friends, kids, and grandkids everywhere she went. Margie never met a stranger—she simply met more people to love. Her hospitality was unmatched, always making sure you had something to eat or drink, always ready with a warm smile and an even warmer embrace.

Margie had a sharp wit and an incredible sense of humor that could brighten even the heaviest of days. She made people laugh, not just with her words but with her infectious joy. She had a way of telling it like it was—always honest, but always with so much love. Her wisdom, warmth, and generosity were gifts she shared freely, and those who knew her were all the better for it.

She was fiercely devoted to her family. Being a mother and "Meme" was her greatest joy, and she loved her family with everything in her. She and Howard raised three incredible sons, Mack, Mike, and Marty, and she stood faithfully beside Howard as they pastored churches, led ministries, and served in leadership roles within the Assemblies of God. She wasn’t just a pastor’s wife—she was a licensed minister with the Assemblies of God and a true partner in ministry, just as committed, just as passionate, and just as faithful.

Even in retirement, Margie and Howard continued ministering, traveling, and serving their church family at Living Waters Church in Kerrville. No matter where life took her, Margie’s purpose remained the same—to love people, to serve others, and to share the goodness of God.

Margie will be remembered for her humor, her beauty, her wisdom, and her deep, unwavering faith. She was genuine, gracious, and incredibly generous. She made the world brighter, warmer, and kinder just by being in it. And now, she is home, reunited with her beloved Howard, rejoicing in the presence of the Savior she served so faithfully.

Margie was preceded in death by her husband, Howard, and her parents Emmett and Gladys Samford. She is survived by her sons: Mack (Mary Lou), Mike (Tammy), and Marty (Tammy). She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Mike Burroughs II (Joni), Jonathan Burroughs (Amber), Lori Burroughs, Jenny Wright (Alex), Crystn Hendrickson (Sara), John Burroughs (Elissa) and Ashton Cardenas (Marc), as well as nineteen great-grandchildren. Margie is also survived by her sister Jeane Crabtree (Ray) and sister-in-law Jimmie Ribble (Tom), along with a host of nieces, nephews, and dear friends—because if you knew Margie, you were family.

A celebration of Margie’s life will be held on Monday, February 17, 2025 at Northwood Church located at 7750 Spring Cypress Road, Spring, Texas 77379. There will be a public visitation at 1:00 PM and Celebration Service beginning at 2:00 PM. In honor of Margie, we invite you to wear pink. A private burial will take place at a later date. The Celebration Service will be live-streamed for those unable to attend. You can watch live on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NorthwoodSpring or YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@northwoodchurch3758 

Flowers are welcome, or in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Living Waters Church in Kerrville, Texas, where Howard and Margie’s son, Mike Burroughs, is the pastor. Checks can be mailed to 108 Aqua Vista Drive, Kerrville, Texas 78028.

Margie’s life was a testament to love, laughter, faith, and unwavering devotion. She made a difference in every life she touched, and though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will live on in the countless hearts she changed forever.