Margaret Gwendoline Yelland, 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at her home in Saugerties. Born on September 18, 1948 in Northam, Western Australia, Margaret was the second of six children born to the late Gwendoline and Eric Yelland.
At the age of 18, Margaret’s adventurous spirit first took her to Sydney, followed by Auckland, London and ultimately New York City. In New York she earned a degree in East Asian Studies from Hunter College followed by a Masters in Business Administration from Columbia University. Margaret’s career in finance included time with Chemical Bank, Goldman Sachs and Credit Suisse First Boston. Long term assignments in global hubs including Bangkok and Hong Kong reflected her love of travel and cultural exploration which she further pursued by picking up both Mandarin and Spanish. Ultimately, Margaret made New York her home and married Alba LaFiandra in 2014.
Margaret loved her home on Manhattan’s Upper West Side as well as the natural beauty and charm of the Saugerties community where she served as a member of the Trinity Episcopal Church congregation and was a long-time participant in Lifespring. Known for being a voracious reader and gifted writer, Margaret was also a formidable opponent in both Scrabble and Boggle. Her passions extended to cooking, gardening, singing, ballet and woodworking all of which brought beauty, creativity and joy to her life.
Margaret was predeceased by her spouse, Alba LaFiandra and her brother Rod. She is survived by her siblings Keith Yelland, Roma Hurn, Joan Russell and Don Yelland as well as her many nieces, nephews and extended family in both Australia and the United States. She is also survived by her beloved cat, Henry, who brought her constant companionship and comfort.
Memorial Service will be held 11:30 AM Saturday, February 15th at the Trinity Episcopal Church, Saugerties, with interment in the Trinity Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, Inc., corner of John & Lafayette Streets, Saugerties.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Town of Saugerties Animal Shelter or a charity of your choice, in honor of Margaret’s love of animals and giving spirit. Expressions of condolence may be shared with the family on Margaret’s Tribute Wall at SeamonWilseyFuneralHome.com
Margaret’s presence, warmth, generosity, good humor and adventurous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
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