Margaret Kerton

Margaret Kerton of West Milford passed away peacefully, in the comfort of her home surrounded by loving family on March 20th 2025.

Daughter of Olive and Corbin Parkhurst and born in Montclair, NJ, Margaret was raised in Pequannock and graduated from Butler High School.

Margaret’s work experience began with Prudential Insurance in the early 1960’s. She left Prudential to begin raising a family with her new husband, Norman Kerton. Later in 1981, she answered a calling that lasted thirty giving years, opening her home as a safe haven for foster children. Along with her family, she cared for and transitioned roughly two hundred children to many permanent homes. After retirement from her foster career, this kind nature led her to volunteer at Cape May Regional Hospital.

Margaret loved lobster and baked potato. So much that she’d ensure a portion came home from the restaurant on the front of her sweater. She bred and raised exotic cats, and adored her many kitties and the couple’s sweetheart Shih Tzu, Madison. Crochet was often a pastime. The national pastime was also dear to her as an avid Yankees fan. The Pequannock Reformed Church, and her relationship with God held a very special place in her heart. 

Margaret met Norman, the love of her life and husband of over sixty years, at Monahan’s Bar in Wayne on a night out. Finding common ground, after a year together they married. Their first home purchase was in Lincoln Park, where they grew their union by having three children. For the expanding family, a move to Pequannock was necessary and shortly thereafter a fourth child arrived. Soon the couple designed and built a house in Kinnelon, with Norman handling much of the labor and construction. The Kerton family spent eight lively years in this home they built. When the time to move came once again, the family found themselves back in Pequannock. After some years, and with an empty nest, the couple made a move south to beautiful Cape May. Seven enjoyable years passed, and a need to be near their children and grandchildren was fulfilled. They chose West Milford to spend peaceful time together with family. 

Margaret is survived by her loving husband Norman and their children - Daryl Kerton and his wife Kirsten, Linda DeCumber and her husband Jon, and Shane Kerton. She is survived by her grandchildren - Jevon Kerton, Bailey Kerton, Kiana Kerton, Jeremiah Kerton, Connor DeCumber, Mia DeCumber and Riley DeCumber.

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In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Pequannock Reformed Church would be greatly appreciated.