Martha Ann (Marti) Robertson was born Dec. 21, 1934 in Morganfield, Ky. and was the second child of Lucille and Joseph Francis (Frank) Wathen. She graduated from Saint Vincent’s Academy in Morganfield and moved to Louisville, Ky. to begin her career in the insurance and finance field. Martha returned to Morganfield to take a new position in the field of finance and that is when she met her future husband, L.H.(Dick) Robertson, who was to become the joy of her life. After her marriage to Dick on Sept. 29, 1956 she accompanied her husband to Texas A & M University and was employed in Schaffer’s bookstore, Cushing Library and the Memorial Student Center. Martha Ann took great pride in her PHT(Putting Hubby Through) degree from Texas A&M. She was proud of the Aggie ring she received for helping Dick obtain his degree in Petroleum Engineering, but she had even more pride in her two sons, Randy and Mark, who were born in Bryan, Texas during that time. After graduating Texas A&M, Dick began his career in the petroleum industry and Martha and their children (which by now included Frank and Robin as well as Randy and Mark) accompanied him in his travels around the world. Martha made a wonderful home for her husband and children in many different countries. The family finally returned to the U. S., first to California and then Texas, which was like a homecoming since Dick’s family had deep roots in the heart of Texas. It was in Houston that Martha released all of her children from the nest. Martha and Dick moved a few more times finally settling in Star Harbor on the shores of Cedar Creek Lake, where Martha was to spend the rest of her days with the love of her life. Martha made numerous friends in the Star Harbor – Malakoff community. She became a member of the Star Harbor Birthday Club. She lovingly referred to her friends in this group as “the girls” and found great happiness in their association. Her warm and engaging personality and excellent culinary skills came to bear in these gatherings as she made elaborate spreads to entertain in style. Martha had a way of touching the lives of all those she met. Everyone who met her walked away with a little more joy than they had before. Martha was a wonderful mother. She raised her children with a love and compassion that continues to live on today through their lives. Martha loved Dick more than life itself and spent 58 years of marriage bringing joy and happiness to a union truly created and blessed by God. They were devoted to each other and define the model of what marriage should be. In addition to her children, Martha was blessed with six grandchildren: James, Sam, Michael, Ian, Savannah and Anna. She was so proud of her grandchildren that she showed their pictures to all she met. She did ask them to call her “Grandmother” since “Grandma” made her feel too old. When Martha found out that she had an illness that science would not be able to resolve she showed that remarkable courage that had been a hallmark of her everyday life. She lived a good life and told her family and friends not to be sad since this was just another part of her journey. She said, “The Good Lord will take me when he is ready.” Her lifelong faith gave her strength and courage. Martha was truly a gift to the world from God. He called her home Thursday, July 11, 2013. The world is now a little dimmer since she is gone. She will be greatly missed.
Martha is survived by her husband, Dick; children Randy, Mark, Frank, Robin Edwards and daughter-in-law Pamela Robertson; grandchildren James Robertson, Michael Robertson, Sam Robertson, Ian Edwards, Airman First Class USAF Savannah Robertson and Anna Robertson; sister Barbara Rodgers and brother-in-law Brian Rodgers, sister Pamela Woods and brother-in-law Earle Woods; aunt Rita Williamson as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and loving friends.
A Recitation of the Rosary will be at 6 p.m. Monday, July 15, 2013 at Carroll-Lehr Funeral Home in Athens followed by visitation until 8 p.m.
A Requiem Mass for the repose of Martha’s soul will be held at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 423 South Broadway Avenue, Tyler, at noon Tuesday, July 16, 2013. Mass will be celebrated by the Very Rev. Anthony McLaughlin, JCD .
Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at Mary Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Malakoff with Rev. Fr William Palmer officiating.
Martha was a lifelong Catholic and flowers are not allowed at the funeral so that we can all be before our God in humble presence. If you have a wish to honor Martha’s memory, please consider a donation to the future John Paul Catholic School soon to be located in her hometown of Morganfield, Ky. The address is John Paul Catholic School, P O Box 224, Morganfield, KY 42437.