It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Stephanie Martin, who left this world on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the age of 98.
Born on December 7, 1926 in Seminole, Stephanie was a radiant spirit whose life was filled with love, laughter and an unwavering zest for life.
Stephanie was the cherished daughter of the late Efem and Anna Martin who instilled in her the values of hard work, kindness, generosity and love of country.
She was preceded in death by her son, Alan Bartley; her brothers, Rudy Hendrock and Jim Hendrock; sisters, Louise Zizak and Mary Caresani; and an infant grandson.
Life blessed Stephanie with a loving family who will forever honor her memory.
She is survived by her devoted daughters, Dr. Donna Ash of Lake Havasu, Ariz. and Marci Bartley, with whom she lived in Lakewood Ranch, Fla.; and granddaughter, Alexis Kern of Fort Worth, Texas.
Stephanie was a successful business owner for 30 years in New Bethlehem before retiring in 1989.
Stephanie graduated from Redbank Valley High School and her love for learning and connection never waned. She forged friendships that lasted a lifetime and her home was a sanctuary of warmth and laughter for all who entered.
She was a member of Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church in Lakewood Ranch, Fla. and found solace and strength in her faith.
She was also a proud member of the "Rosie the Riveter Association" reflecting her strong spirit and the indomitable role women played in shaping our society.
Stephanie was a woman of many interests. She was an avid bridge player, a wonderful cook and loved dancing until her knees made her stop.
She was a voracious reader and loved her Kindle.
Traveling was one of her greatest joys and she often reminisced about the adventures she embarked upon and the people she met.
She loved sports and was a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan throughout her life. She adored riding her bicycle, affectionately calling it her "Pink Cadillac," and could often be seen throughout Tampa Palms (where she lived at the time) enjoying the outdoors, basking in the sunshine and embracing life's simple pleasures until her knees made her stop.
Friends and family alike will remember her infectious laughter, her genuineness and that she was always fun to be with.
As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman whose heart knew no bounds, we invite all to celebrate her life.
A graveside service will be held at the Saint Charles Catholic Cemetery in New Bethlehem in the summer of 2025 where family and friends may pay their respects and share in the joyous memories that Stephanie gifted us all. Final date and arrangements are still to be made.
In her honor, let us remember to embrace life with the same passion she did: to laugh loudly, love deeply, and celebrate every moment just as she taught us through her remarkable life. Stephanie will be missed deeply, but her legacy of love, laughter and resilience will live forever on in our hearts.
