Margaret “Margie” Olney

Olney—Margaret “Margie” Olney, 94, on May 24, 2024, while in memory care, in San Rafael, Calif. Margie was born on April 29, 1930, to Elizabeth and Warren Olney III in Berkeley, Calif. She had one sister, Elisabeth, and one brother, Warren Olney IV. Margie attended Berkeley public schools, where she made friends that she cherished throughout her life.

Margie earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in philosophy at the University of California, Berkeley, where she was active in a number of organizations, including International House and the YWCA. Margie lived in a small apartment near campus for most of her life. She remained an involved member of the university community through adult learning programs and contributions.

Margie authored Philosophy Notebook, encouraging readers and writers to combine intellect and emotion so as to “know thyself.”

In the 1950s and early ’60s, she attended Pendle Hill, a Quaker study center in Wallingford, Pa. This was a turning point for Margie, inspiring her lifelong devotion to working for peace. She attended Berkeley (Calif.) Meeting for more than 50 years. Margie contributed to the life of meeting through vocal ministry that drew upon her study of philosophy, service as clerk of the Adult Education Committee for two years, and by encouraging participation in activities to promote world peace.  

Despite her admiration for UC Berkeley, Margie cofounded the Circle of Concern, a silent vigil that met weekly on the edge of campus to protest the university’s participation in nuclear weapons development. Beginning during the 1970s and throughout the remainder of her life, she stood each week holding a banner along with others in the Circle of Concern. When she was too frail to remain standing toward the end of her life, she sat on the grass while others held the banner. Margie was everlastingly hopeful. 

Margie led protests during the Vietnam War, viewing the war as immoral. She expressed strong concerns about the government’s truthfulness related to how the war was being conducted.

Margie lived her entire life in Berkeley, with the exception of her final years spent in memory care. Although she never married or had children, she lovingly cared for her grandniece and grandnephew when she was in her 60s and 70s, concocting a fantastic assortment of activities to help them grow into adults who appreciate art, poetry, and nature.

Margie was predeceased by her sister, Elisabeth Olney Anderson.

She is survived by her brother, Warren Olney IV; brother-in-law, Robert L. Anderson; six nieces and nephews; one grandniece; and one grandnephew.