Martha Smith

Martha Joan (Stafford) Smith, a beloved wife, mother, and devoted grand and great-grandmother, passed away on Friday, October 13, 2023 at the age of 95. She was born on May 22, 1928 in Tipton to William Arthur and Mary Gladys (Ulm) Stafford. As one of nine children, Martha realized the importance of family and she carried that with her all of her days. Her life stands as a testament to God, faith, family, and compassion.

After graduating from Tipton High School, she would meet and later marry Richard Dale Smith. The two were enjoined in holy matrimony on June 26, 1948 and their love would remain unwavering during their 69 years of marriage before Richard’s passing on October 26, 2017.

Martha found her life’s calling in being a wife and mother. Her caring and loving commitment to her family shines on through the legacy of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Aside from the task of running a household, Martha also made time to serve as the secretary of her church and assist in many church groups for years at the Anderson First Church of Nazarene. God also called Martha to serve in a most unique ministry. She was called to send words of encouragement, comfort, and inspiration to others in the form of cards. Martha never ceased to brighten someone’s day with her warm and uplifting words.

Survivors include her children Michael (Anita) Smith of Decatur, Carolyn (Steve) Swan of Tipton, and James (Susie) Smith of Nashville, TN. Grandchildren include Justin (Jill) Swan, Clint (Meghan) Swan, and Stefanie (Troy) Parton. Great-grandchildren include Lukas, Mylan, Nolan, Liam, Abby, Norah, Lucy, Annabelle, and Maizy and one sister-in-law, Eunice Stafford.

Aside from her parents and husband, Martha is rejoined with her siblings John, Nellie Hartwick, Herman, Betty Reynolds, Gerald, Elizabeth Riggs, Arthur and Robert “Bob” who all preceded her in death.

Funeral services to celebrate Martha’s life will be held on Tuesday, October 24, at 2:00 p.m. at Oasis Church in Tipton. Calling hours will be from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the church prior to the funeral. She will be laid to her eternal rest beside her beloved Richard, at Sunset Memorial Park in Elwood following the services. The officiants for the service will be Rev. Kim Drake and Rev. Gary Klinger. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oasis Mission Fund, 600 Fairgrounds Road, Tipton, Indiana, 46072 or Anderson First Nazarene Church Mission Fund, 2324 Jackson Street, Anderson, Indiana, 46016.

The family is grateful for the loving and compassionate care provided by Dawn DeWitt and the staff at IU Tipton Hospital.

Young-Nichols is honored to be assisting the family in their hour of need.