Margaret M. (Walsh) Bancroft, 86, Passes Away

Longtime Mattapoisett resident and beloved community member dies after period of declining health.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Margaret M. (Walsh) Bancroft, a longtime resident of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts, passed away on March 6, 2026 at the age of 86 after a period of declining health. Born in New Bedford in 1939, Bancroft was a communicant of St. Anthony's Church and was known for her love of the beach, her sense of humor, and her passion for reading and education.

Why it matters

Bancroft's passing marks the end of an era for the close-knit Mattapoisett community, where she was a beloved figure known for her warmth, generosity, and commitment to her family and local institutions. Her life story reflects the changing tides of the region over the past several decades.

The details

Bancroft married her high school sweetheart, David A. Bancroft, and the couple moved to Mattapoisett in 1974 to raise their family. She was an active member of the community, serving as a librarian at Holy Family Grammar School and building a personal library in her home. Bancroft was also an avid traveler, exploring destinations like Switzerland, Scandinavia, and the Caribbean. She was known for her love of animals, her practical jokes, and her ability to make people feel comfortable and at ease.

  • Bancroft passed away on March 6, 2026.
  • She was born on September 9, 1939 in New Bedford.
  • Bancroft married her husband David in high school and the couple moved to Mattapoisett in 1974.
  • Bancroft's husband David passed away in 2005 after 43 years of marriage.
  • Bancroft's son Michael passed away in 1996 at the age of 26.

The players

Margaret M. (Walsh) Bancroft

A longtime resident of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts who was known for her love of the beach, sense of humor, and passion for reading and education.

David A. Bancroft

Bancroft's husband of 43 years, who passed away in 2005.

Michael A. Bancroft

Bancroft's son who passed away in 1996 at the age of 26.

David J. Bancroft

Bancroft's son who lives in Kennebunkport, Maine.

Robin L. Bancroft

Bancroft's daughter who lives in Fairhaven, Massachusetts.

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What’s next

Bancroft's funeral will be held on Friday, March 13th at 10 AM at Holy Name of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in New Bedford, Massachusetts, followed by a private burial.

The takeaway

Bancroft's life exemplified the values of community, family, and service that have long defined the Mattapoisett area. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy of warmth, humor, and dedication to education will continue to inspire those who knew her.