Margaret Jane Fender

Margaret Jane Fender, 83, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, passed away on April 7, 2026. She was born on January 23, 1943, in McAlester, Oklahoma, to Walter Steidley and Beulah (Williams) Steidley.

Margaret's life was shaped by curiosity, creativity, and a strong sense of independence. After completing her education, she began her career with Wang Corporation in Dallas, where she was among the early users of word processing technology. She maintained an interest in computers and continued learning about new technology throughout her life.

While working at McAlester Regional Hospital, Margaret met Bruce Fender. They later married and spent their working years traveling throughout the country for Bruce's employment before eventually retiring.

Margaret was an accomplished seamstress and watercolor artist. She continued to study and practice both skills throughout her life, often using online videos and written materials to refine her work. She was known for making connections with others and developed a number of friendships during her time living in Okmulgee. She also maintained a long-standing friendship with her coworker, Veronica, whom she met at McAlester Regional Hospital.

She is survived by her children, David Martinez and Rita Crampton; her grandchildren, Sydney, Shelby, David, and Nicholas; and her brothers, Greg Steidley, John Steidley, George Steidley, and Walter "Joe" Steidley, Jr. She is also survived by bonus children, Daina Strunk, Nelson Whitmore, Rodney Whitmore, and Mike Whitmore.

Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Bruce Fender; her parents, Walter Joseph Steidley, Sr. and Beulah Maudine (Williams) Steidley; and bonus children, Inez Whitmore and Deral Whitmore.

In keeping with her wishes, no public funeral service will be held. The family asks that memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice.

Margaret will be remembered for her creativity, her interest in learning, and the connections she made throughout her life.

Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Simplicity Burial & Oklahoma Cremation Centers. Friends and family may leave condolences and kind words of comfort at https://www.simplicityburialcremation.com