Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Margaret Lee Couto born August 1st 1948 and raised on a farm in Spotsylvania, Virginia with ten siblings, loved by her parents Clifton and Viola Coppage and influenced by Baptist faith surely gave her a zest for experiencing life.

She was a devoted wife to Henrique Couto just shy of 60 years this November.  Mother of two boys, Wayne and Nelson and Mother-in-law to Trisha and Elaine.  Nana to five grandchildren, Joshua, Justin, Hannah, Hope and Blake and her great granddaughter, Clara.  Plus step-Nana to Lauren and Ryleigh Wilson cause that’s what great Nanas’ do…share the love.

Margaret and Henry worked hard to build and enjoy a simple yet complete life in Maryland. A seamstress by trade and an avid gardener and crafter, she so enjoyed crocheting, making and collecting jewelry, sewing quilts and the best Halloween costumes for the entire Couto Crew.  In fact, Margaret was always surrounded and inspired by her love of all the “Grands”.  An adventuresome spirit meant she got in the pool (even though she couldn’t swim well), played games on the floor (even at the age of 77 struggling with cancer), went for a nature walk, and fought for a good spot on the sidelines of any lacrosse, rugby, football, basketball game, hockey rink or wrestling match.   

Over the last 10 months, Margaret navigated a terminal, metastatic cancer diagnosis comforted by family, friends, and a dedicated medical team. Her battle ended the morning of Friday, April 25 with God’s grace and love as Henry held her hand and reaffirmed it was time for eternal peace.

We will all surely miss her smile, thoughtfulness, detailed conversations, embracing hugs and dedication to this family. When “they” say good things come in small packages, it meant our Mamma Couto, all 4’11” of her!

May God continue to bless and uphold her loving spirit!


Margaret Lee Couto

Margaret Lee Couto

Margaret Couto Services

Memorial Gathering