Martha Joan Leyda (nee Spencer), born to life in Russellville, Ind., on Sept. 21, 1933, entered the fullness of eternal life on March 5, 2014.
A lifelong resident of the Southern Lakes area. Martha leaves behind her loving husband and best friend of 57 years, William Leyda. She will be missed as well by her children Earl (Ginger Arnold) Leyda, Elizabeth (David) Legler and Edwin (Lisa) Leyda. She was the beloved grandmother of Melissa Leyda and dear sister of George (Judy) Spencer and Mary (Tom) Moore. She is also survived by many other family members and friends.
A cum laude graduate of Hanover College in Indiana, Martha was a member of Pi Gamma Mu International Honor Society, Alpha Lambda Delta for academic excellence, and a student council member.
She went on to receive her master’s degree in education from Miami University of Ohio.
Martha was a lifelong follower of and believer in Jesus Christ. She had most recently been a member of First United Methodist Church, which welcomed her as family.
Martha was an educator by profession and teacher in life. She retired from Walworth County Health and Human Services where she spent many heartfelt hours assisting people in need.
She also found time to be involved with Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, UNICEF, “picture lady” for grade schools, 4-H, Great Decisions and many other community activities. Martha was an enthusiastic reader, a student of history and had intense compassion for everyone with whom she came into contact.
Her interests were innumerable as she was a devoted wife and mother, and became an exceptional cook, baker and confectioner. She loved to garden and was an accomplished pianist and organist. She was also an enthusiastic knitter and sewer who gave to friends, family, hospitals and many charitable organizations.
Martha’s family received friends at a memorial visitation and celebrated her life March 14 at the Feerick Funeral Home, 2025 E. Capitol Drive, Shorewood. Private interment will take place in Indiana.
The family wishes to thank Avalon Square, Optage and Stowell Associates for their outstanding support and care.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Martha’s name may be made to First United Methodist Church, Building Fund, 121 Wisconsin Ave., Waukesha.
