Island Falls, Maine - Mary Margaret (O'Rourke) Parker, Esq., passed away on November 22, 2025, in Ellsworth, Maine. She was born on September 30, 1944, in Saratoga Springs, New York, the daughter of James B. O'Rourke and Rosaline Mary (Bateson) O'Rourke.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Michael O'Rourke. Peggy is survived by her brother, Robert O'Rourke.

Peggy graduated from St. Clement's Grammar School in 1958, St. Peter's High School in 1962, attended Rochester Polytech Institute, and graduated from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs in 1966. In 1990, she graduated from Vermont Law School. She practiced law in Ashland, Presque Isle, Houlton, Smyrna, and Island Falls, Maine. Beyond her law career, Peggy was also an internationally recognized textile designer and clothing manufacturer. She created the Natural Gauge method of weaving - widely known as one of the most innovative advances in the textile industry.

Special thanks to Pamela Joseph, whose generosity to Peggy went beyond the pale; Susan Ballou for her always good advice; a special cousin, Gail Bateson; Russell and Kathleen Varin for always being there to help; Marcus and Jessie Varin's daughters, Aliyah, Anjolie, Amara, Alana, and Abigail, who inspired Peggy with their dancing skills; Barry and Lois Smith, for being great neighbors; Peter and Cheryl Connelly for caring about her; and Peggy's former husband, David Parker, who always kept a warm place in his heart for her. Also, special thanks to the late former associate Justice of the Maine Supreme Judicial Court James P. Archibald; retired Superior Court Justice Paul T. Pierson; and retired District Court Judge David Soucy for their patience and mentoring.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church in Island Falls on August 14, 2026, at 1 p.m. with Father Kevin Martin officiating, and with a graveside memorial service following at St. Agnes Roman Catholic Cemetery in Island Falls. A reception will follow at Seven Sherman Street in Island Falls at 3 p.m. Condolences may be emailed to pat@patrickehuntpa.com, which will be forwarded to all contributors.

Requiescat in pace.