Martha Ruth (Wilson) Smith was born on August 27, 1940, in San José, Costa Rica. In 1953, at the age of 12, Martha was adopted by Major Chaplain Ralph Wilson and his wife, Helen.

Martha married the love of her life, Ronald Dean Smith, and together they shared 61 years of marriage. Ronald preceded Martha in death, as did her brother, David Wilson.

Martha is survived by her daughter, Ruth Ann (Terry) Amoth; grandson Nolan (Morgan), her son, Michael David Smith; grandchildren; Brittany, Mallory, Mickael, and Jazmine( Josh); her great-grandchildren; extended family, and many friends.

Martha was an incredibly hard worker and spent more than 20 years employed with Holiday Inn. Martha enjoyed gardening, crafting, and spending time with family and friends. In her later years, Martha especially enjoyed the SPARK program at MOWA and the Memory Café at Riversedge Nature Center.

A special and heartfelt thank-you goes to three very special friends and devoted caregivers, Joanne, Laurie, and Diane, for the love, friendship, and care they provided to Martha. The family also extends their deepest gratitude to Sharon Richardson Hospice for the compassionate and excellent care provided to Martha.

Perhaps there is no better way to honor Martha and the country where her story began than with the words that capture a beautiful way of embracing life:

Pura Vida — “Pure Life.”

A life lived fully.
A life filled with love.
A life worth celebrating.

Pura Vida, Martha