Martha Hess

Martha devoted her life and energy to serving her family, her friends, her church (LDS), and her Savior, Jesus Christ. She had a passion for flowers and gardening. She enjoyed quilting, yoga and going for walks in the sunshine. A fantastic mother, Martha nurtured and raised her children in love and the doctrine of Christ. She loved to read, and she co-founded and shepherded a “classic” book club that started 36 years ago and continues today. Martha loved music and was happiest when surrounded by her family, singing, playing the piano, and just being together. Even when she wasn’t feeling well, Martha was constantly and selflessly concerned about others. She truly found her life by losing her life in the service of others, as Jesus taught. Martha had a gift for self-effacement and focusing on others. Constantly, she demonstrated true love and empathy for those around her. We shall forever remember her fun and unique personality, her delightful sense of humor, her remarkable wisdom, and her positive attitude.

Martha is survived by her husband, Paul W. Hess, five of her six children–Jacob (Monique), Katie (John) Thompson, Julia, Daniel, Elijah–her daughter-in-law, Mary, and Martha’s four grandchildren: Esther, Lucy, Isaac (Thompson) and William (Hess). Her son, Samuel, and her brother Gary, both of whom preceded her in death, we believe, were anxiously waiting to welcome her through the veil.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 7, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at the Steed Creek LDS Stake Center, 347 South 200 West, Farmington, Utah. Friends may call before the funeral from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and also on Friday evening, July 6, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Russon Brothers Mortuary, 1941 North Main St., Farmington.

The family expresses heartfelt thanks to all the wonderful family members, friends, and health care providers (especially Elizabeth Prystas, MD) for their care and support over the years of Martha’s illness. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the LDS humanitarian fund.