Laree Martin

Laree Richardson Martin, 87 of Central passed away October 11, 2013. Laree was born October 4, 1926 to Ralph and Sarah Whipple Richardson in Virden, New Mexico. She was the fourth of five children. After graduating from high school in 1944, she worked her way through college and fulfilled her dream of becoming a teacher and went on to obtain her Masters Degree in Education from U of A. She taught in the area school districts for over 30 years and retired from Fort Thomas Schools in 1987. Laree was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and held many positions in the church. She and her husband, Lavell, spend 3 1/2 years working in the Mesa Temple. She loved music, reading, gardening and hummingbirds. Her favorite singer was Pavarotti. Laree is survived by her spouse of 21 years, Abner Lavell Martin; children, Ron Herbert, Spencer Herbert, Brent (Diane) Herbert, Fred (Sherry) Martin, Brent (Jan) Martin, Jim (Liz) Martin, Velda (Darvel) Green, Pearl Hernandez, Nada (Jimmy) Spurgeon, Emma (Jon) Batty, Grant Martin, Cindy (David) Carter and Verdean (Robert) Smith; and brother, Ralph (Norma) Richardson; 70 grandchildren, 159 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her son, Terry Herbert, parents, and three siblings. A viewing will be conducted on Friday, October 18, 2013 from 6:00 pm. to 8:00 p.m. at Caldwell Funeral Chapel in Safford and again one hour prior to services on Saturday. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, October 19, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. at the old Central LDS Chapel.