Betty R. Martin

MARTIN – Betty R., 84, St. Michael, passed away peacefully March 5, 2025, at Windber Hospice. Born September 27, 1940, in Windber, daughter of Joseph F. Martin and Kathryn (Persavage) Martin/Safarik. Preceded in death by parents; former husband, Harry D. Hoffman; daughter, Cathy J. Klucik; and beloved Cocker Spaniel, Bear. 

Survived by partner, Charles A. Holland (Blue Knob); children, Harry (Krystal), Elton; Terry (Danielle), St. Michael; Adam (Karen), St. Michael; and Laurie (Dean Geibel), Richland; son-in-law, Jim Klucik, Windber; grandchildren, Alexa, Avana, Trinity, Amanda, Danelle, Brayden, Kaylee and Brock; and 5 great-grandchildren. 

Betty worked as a School Bus Driver for nearly 30 years for Miller Motor Company and as a Lowe’s Cashier. She was a responsible, reliable, diligent worker. Betty was a joyful, humorous, kind-hearted little lady who lived a simple life. She enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, and camping with family during earlier years. At home, she cooked meals from scratch for her family in a small kitchen with little counter space and no dishwasher. She changed and hand washed cloth diapers for her 5 children using an old-fashioned wringer washer and an outdoor clothesline—a lot of hard work! She delighted in local festivals, camping, and traveling with her partner Charlie during later years. Betty always watched the News and looked forward to high-drama afternoon soap operas. Indeed, she was quite unhappy whenever she had to miss her soaps for any reason! She also enjoyed relaxing, sitting on her front porch swing. We wish to extend a deep, heartfelt thanks to those who were highly involved in Betty’s care during the final stages of her life and brave battle with ALS: partner Charlie, dear friend/neighbor Paula, daughter Laurie, and personal care aides Valerie, Kayla, and April. 

Friends will be received from 3 to 7 p.m. Sunday (March 9), and 10 a.m. until time of funeral service at 11 a.m. Monday (March 10) at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home, Inc., South Fork, the Reverend Pat Walsh presiding. 

Interment, Dunlo United Methodist Cemetery.