Martha Jean Talarico, age 83, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2025, surrounded by family, after a full and vibrant life. Funeral service will be 12 noon, Thursday, May 22, at Flushing Presbyterian Church. Pastor Paul Pfeuffer will officiate. Cremation will follow the funeral service. Visitation will be 11 a.m. Thursday at the church until the time of the service at 12 noon. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to the American Stroke Association, www.stroke.org.
Born on April 8, 1942, in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Martha brought smiles, joy, and a little Jesus to all who knew her. Known for her deep love of flowers, sewing, and home decorating, Martha had a special gift for making any space feel like home. Her creativity bloomed in every season, much like the gardens she so adored. Her heart, however, belonged first and foremost to her family.
She is survived by her seven favorite children, Laurie (Greg) Lazzar, Mari (Dan) Staley, Don Walker, Carrie (Larry) Younkin, Susan (Jamie) Hollar, Nick Daddario, and Krissy (Sean) Lentz; cherished grandchildren, Emma, Lindsey, Matt, Leigha, Mahgan, Hunter, Amanda, Brock, Aaron, Gibson, Gabriel, Cal, Joshua, Olivia, Violet, Gavin, Aiva, Avery, Parker, Owen; great-grandchildren, Elliana, Brock Jr, Abbey, Harper, and Gwen—with one more on the way. She also leaves behind her dear brother, Thomas (Rose) Ryan, and many nieces and nephews.
Martha was preceded in death by her husband, David Talarico; her parents, James and Iva Ryan; brother, Sherman Ryan; sisters, Shirley Mills and Glenda Caughlin; and nephews, Bobby Youmans, David and Ryan Mills.
Her happy place was always by the water—book in hand, family nearby, and flowers all around. Her final home in Au Gres, Michigan, offered her exactly that.
A woman of deep and steady faith, Martha kept her Bible close, whether she was reading, reflecting, or journaling. Her relationship with God remained a guiding light through all seasons of her life.
Martha’s legacy is one of laughter, strength, and generosity—woven through her family, her faith, and the home she created wherever she went. She will be missed deeply, but her spirit will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know her.
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