Markham B. Campaigne — a former headmaster of St. Margaret’s Episcopal School in San Juan Capistrano, who was instrumental to the schools growth as the longest-serving headmaster in the school’s history — died May 28. He was 83 years old.
He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, and their four children, Markham Baker Campaigne Jr., Daniel Paul Campaigne, Sarah Joy (Campaigne) Zell, and Deborah Louise Campaigne.
Under his leadership, St. Margaret’s doubled in size to its current level of more than 1,200 students, and the campus was increased by nearly 20 acres.
Campaigne remarked that “together we have built a world-class school while remaining true to our spiritual, caring and integrity-based roots.”
Campaigne was a strong supporter of school arts and athletics programs and was often present at school events.
Prior to serving as headmaster at St. Margaret’s, Campaigne was assistant headmaster, as well as math teacher and basketball coach, at The Bishop’s School, La Jolla, from 1977 -1986.
Campaigne graduated the Naval Academy, and served in the Marine Corps for 22 years, including in Vietman.
“His loss is immense and will be felt throughout the St. Margaret’s community,” said Jeneen Graham, current head of school at St. Margaret’s, in a May 30 statement. “Mr. Campaigne was a pillar of the St. Margaret’s community and one of the most influential figures in the history of our school. We will miss him, yet we will remember his visionary leadership, his thoughtfulness, his strong faith and his love and care for the Tartan community.