Mary L. Martin

On Saturday, November 27th, 2021, at 4:16 p.m. our loving Matriarch Mary Lou Martin went on to be with our Lord. She was covered in warmth and love with her family surrounding her as she entered into glory.

Mrs. Mary Lou Martin who was loving referred to as “Lou” was born on June 22, 1940, in Parma, Missouri to Jack L. and Elvenar (Thrasher) Woodard. Lou was the last living sibling of 11 children.

Mrs. Mary Lou Martin “Lou” attained her early education in Missouri and graduated from Perry High School in Lima, Ohio. Mary Lou also held her Welding Certification. She ultimately settled in Kokomo, Indiana where she married and raised her children.

Mrs. Mary Lou Martin was joined in a loving union with Charlie J. (Sonny) Martin, August 23, 1964. This loving marriage lasted until Charlie preceded her in passing.

Mrs. Mary Lou Martin “Lou” had a passion for life. She loved having her family and friends over to eat, laugh, and enjoy each other’s company. She loved to crochet, garden, travel, and pull a few slot machines. Mary Lou never missed a moment to sit with her sisters and chat about the “current happenings.” Mary was a sounding board for her children and grandchildren; always there to give calm, sound advice.

Mrs. Mary Lou Martin was a founding member of Strait Gate Ministry in Kokomo, Indiana. Mrs. Mary Lou Martin was formerly employed at Cunio Press and American General Insurance before retiring from Chrysler. It was at Chrysler that she was one of the first African American women ever hired. She was a dedicated member of UAW Local 685, serving on the Women’s Committee and the CAP Committee. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and the Daughters of Elk- Princess Kokoma 1163.

Mrs. Mary Lou Martin leaves to cherish her memory 4 children; Norris O’Bannon, Jackie L. (Carla) Woodard, Bonita Hatchett, and Charlie J. (JoAnn) Martin, Jr. Nine grandchildren; Cedric (Chauntae) Woodard, Kiley Woodard, Jamichael Gilliam, Jerred, Julian, Joilyn, and Jameel Finch-Martin, Breonna Jackson, and Darius Jackson. Twelve great-grandchildren; Ariel Woodard, Zahniyah Gilliam, Chaniya, Antjuan, and Tony Cade, Arionna, Breon and Layla Jackson, Jaiden McNulty, and Santana Brown. Three sisters-in-law, Dorothy Martin (Kokomo), Mattie Smith (Columbus, OH), and Margie Martin (Little Rock, AR). She also leaves two special nieces, Regina Swygert and Velma Clark-Stitts and godson, Terris Woodard to cherish her memory.

Mrs. Mary Lou Martin was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and 10 siblings: Queen Ester Plunkett, Inez Jones, Elvina Clark, Wallace Woodard, Charlie Woodard, Theodore Woodard, Bobby Gene Woodard, Myra Woodard, Jackie Woodard, and Charles Sheffield. She was also preceded by godson, Philip Anthony Swygert, and son-in-law, Robert O’Bannon.

The family sends a special thank you to Community Howard, Elara Caring Hospice, and Monicia Swygert for providing exceptional care for our loved one. You are greatly appreciated.

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