Marguerite Clair Masse's Obituary
Marguerite Clair Masse’, 67, of Teaneck, N.J., passed away on March 20, 2025. In her final days in the hospital, she received much love and gratitude from her brothers, sisters-in law, nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues.
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Marguerite (Meg) was born May 30, 1957, in Canton, OH, the daughter of Donald and Peggy (Hart) Masse’. She graduated from Brighton High School (Rochester, N.Y.) in 1975. She later attended the University of Akron, New York University (where she studied with legendary acting teacher Stella Adler), and Ohio University, where she graduated with a B.A. in theater in 1979.
An accomplished actor, Marguerite performed in several Off-Broadway productions and with a traveling acting troupe across the Northeast and Midwest. She was a devoted patron of the arts, in particular live theater. A talented artist, Marguerite taught herself guitar and piano at a young age and could perform beautifully on a moment’s notice.
Marguerite was also a published author and longtime freelancer. She wrote several plays, and works of poetry and prose. Her most recent extended published story was a cover article for the Fountain House newsletter, chronicling her struggles with homelessness.
Marguerite faced many obstacles in her lifetime, but possessing an indefatigable spirit, she overcame much hardship and became a champion for mental health awareness through her association with Fountain House, a non-profit New York City advocacy organization. In 2017, Marguerite spoke at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C., advocating for affordable housing for people with disabilities.
A natural athlete, Marguerite played field hockey in high school. She swung a golf club with ease and could throw a perfect football spiral. She was a fierce competitor in the hotly contested Thanksgiving family football games with her father and brothers. She was a lifelong fan of the New York Yankees and her beloved New York (football) Giants.
Throughout her life, Marguerite possessed a strong intellect and a keen, lifelong sense of humor. Those who knew her were richer for their encounters and experiences with Marguerite. She had many close friends and former classmates who were dear to her throughout her life.
Cherishing Marguerite’s memory are brothers, Michael, Mark, Peter-Paul and Andrew; sisters-in-law Sharron, Mykie, Amy and Kelly; nieces and nephews, Michael, John, Rob, John, Mark, Katie, Elizabeth, Lucas, Liam, Devin and Rory.
Preceding Marguerite in death were parents, Donald and Peggy Hart; and an infant brother, Christopher. Memorial donations may be directed to Fountain House (NYC) and the National Alliance to End Homelessness.
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