Martha I. Graves

Martha Irene Graves passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 19. She was born in Mexico City on October 1, 1934, and she was raised in Acapulco, where her grandfather owned a coffee plantation. Martha worked as an administrative secretary for the Mexican government before becoming an airline hostess. She had a passion for dance and became a dance instructor for Arthur Murray in Florida after moving to the United States in her early 20s. There she met Matt, a fellow dance instructor, and they were married just six weeks later. They traveled with Arthur Murray from Florida to Indiana, Denver, and finally settled in Wellsville, NY, which was her husband's hometown. Martha was not only a skilled tailor and seamstress but also worked as an interpreter for local industry plants. She continued to pursue her talent as a self-employed seamstress well into her 70s.

She is preceded in death by her husband Matt and her daughter Pauline. She is survived by her daughters Elynor (Jorge) and Martha Lynn, her granddaughters Sabrina and Madison, grandsons Matthew (Nescha) and Forrest, and great-grandchildren London, Jameson, and Dylan.

Those who knew Martha knew that despite her small frame, she was a force. Those who loved Martha loved her for her sassy humor, her vitality, and her energetic spirit. She will be deeply missed.