Margie Clausson Burgess

Margie Clausson Burgess (1938 – 2025), a lifelong Plymouth resident, was educated in Plymouth schools and at the New England School of Banking.

Margie was involved with Rotary International, an involvement that included being a guide and mentor to the many who, as students, sought the experience of being an exchange student. Her home was filled with life—she opened her home to dozens of foreign exchange students attending high school in Plymouth, and at area colleges. She hosted meetings, parties, and gatherings that welcomed students not only from Plymouth, but from all over the world. Plymouth students enjoyed her passion for learning about new cultures, backgrounds, and people different from themselves.

She was a true Plymouth ambassador. She touched lives in ways both big and small, bringing people together and celebrating the richness of different cultures and experiences. Margie was a constant presence of support for countless others in this community and beyond.

She played an instrumental role in maintaining Plymouth’s sister-city relationship with Shichigahama, Japan by being involved in the coordination of cultural and educational exchange events.

Margie also cared deeply about our underprivileged students, always striving to make sure every child had a fair and equitable chance to not just succeed, but to thrive.

Margie’s service to Plymouth included time on the Town’s Capital Outlay Committee, serving as a Town Meeting Member, and as a member of the Plymouth School Committee, Permanent School Building Committee, the Energy Committee, and the Audit Committee. She served on the Obery Street Master Plan commission, American Legion Auxiliary, and the Plymouth Area Interfaith Community Alliance. She was a member of the Plymouth Rotary Club, as well as a member of the Republican Town Committee and the Plymouth League of Women Voters.

Her passion for and dedication to Plymouth never wavered. She could always be found at events, meetings, and on any committee that needed her.

Margie was a strong advocate for the arts, championing the visual and performing arts department in Plymouth’s schools. In addition, she was an active volunteer with the Spire Center for Performing Arts in downtown Plymouth.

Margie was a woman of faith and a world traveler. She was an active and beloved member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held many positions within the church.