Mary Ethel Martin

Mary Ethel Martin was born on March 21, 1937, in Auxvasse, Missouri, to Howell “Pete” and Gertrude (Howard) Brandenburg. She passed away on July 29, 2025, at West Vue Nursing Center in West Plains, Missouri, at the age of 88. She was united in marriage to Kenneth Leon Martin on September 30, 1954, in Mexico, Missouri, and to this union, three children were born. 

Mary is survived by her children, Kari Acklin and husband, Jeff of Mountain View, MO, and Mike Martin and wife, Rosemary of Doniphan, MO; three siblings, Jim, Jean, and Beverly all of Mexico, MO; six grandchildren, Kasey, Preston (Joy), Kody (Crystal), Kyle (Mary), Tyler, and Kristina; nine great-grandchildren, Evan, Lauren, Bella, Emmett, Mia, Aubrey, Hudson, Cadence, and Jovie; and a host of nieces, nephews, step grandchildren, and step great-grandchildren. 

She is preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth; daughter, Katrina; parents, Pete and Gertrude; stepmother, Crystal; daughter-in-law, Michelle; and siblings, Bob, Goldie, Kaye, and Joyce. 

Mary enjoyed her life by raising her kids and all the traveling over the years as a military wife. She and her family moved with Kenneth to Nebraska, South Carolina, England, Florida, California, and back to England, then Florida again, before settling in Missouri. She worked at Angelica factory for a while, and then owned and operated a beauty shop for several years. After closing her shop, she worked at Mountain View Fab for 19 years. 

Mary’s greatest loves were her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Every moment spent with them was a heartfelt joy in her life. 

She was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on this earth was one marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. She found solace and community at Winona Christian Church, where she also helped with the church youth group for several years. 

Funeral services were held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Winona Christian Church, Winona, Missouri, with Pastor Adam Gordan officiating, under the direction of Yarber Mortuary, Winona. Visitation was held prior to the services from 9- 10:00 a.m., also at the church. Interment was in Falling Springs Cemetery, Greer, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made to Falling Springs Cemetery and left at the Security Bank in Winona. Condolences may be expressed at www.yarbermortuary.com