Retha Fern Martin, 97, formerly of Hutchinson, passed away April 27, 2021, at The Wellington, Fort Worth, TX.  She was born January 26, 1924, in Miller, MO, to Mini Evelyn Ball.

On June 18, 1941, Retha married Robert Earl Martin, in Ozark, MO.  They shared over 53 years of marriage, prior to his death on May 26, 1995.

She is survived by:  sons, Robert L. Martin of Fort Pierce, FL, and Jerry W. (Peggy) Martin of Fort Worth, TX; siblings, Margie Sterling of Springfield, MO, James Sterling of Mountain Home, ID, Edith Sterling of Springfield, MO, Marylyn Sterling of Little Rock, AR, Carol Murphy of Springfield, MO, Frank Sterling of Springfield, MO, and Tom Sterling of Springfield, MO; seven grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.

Retha was preceded in death by:  her parents; husband; and daughter, Joyce Martin.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Saturday, May 8, 2021, at Elliott Mortuary Chapel, with Pastor Robert L. Martin officiating.  Burial will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson.  Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, May 7, 2021, at Elliott Mortuary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to American Cancer Society, in care of Elliott Mortuary and Crematory, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.