Martha Ann Plowman

Martha Ann Plowman, aged 77, a woman of immense strength and kindness, left us on December 3, 2024 at the PAM Hospital in Sarasota, Florida with her loving family by her side after a courageous battle.

Born to Ann and Kenneth Smith of Wayne, NJ, Martha graduated from Wayne Valley High School in 1965. She became a devoted nurse, specializing in geriatric care, who dedicated her life to providing compassionate care to countless patients. She was known for her warm smile and remembered for her unwavering dedication and ability to bring comfort during difficult times.

Martha married the love of her life, Craig, fifty-three years ago on November 27, 1971. Growing by three children and many different pets, our family enjoyed Life on the Lake in Pompton Lakes, NJ for thirty years, spending summers “down the shore” at our condo in Seaside Heights, NJ. Martha loved the beach and water of all kinds and found great peace when she was near it. Naturally, when it was time to retire, she and Craig would find themselves in Venice, Florida where she lived happily with her husband and pets near the waters of the Gulf; palm trees in the yard.

Martha loved animals and she was known to rescue random strays that became pets quite frequently. Animals of all kinds were drawn to her, as if they knew they would be safe around her. Her compassion extended to people as well. She always had enough room for another seat and we often had strangers at our table on Thanksgiving. She was also an avid photographer and our homes are filled with pictures she took herself. The impact she has made on our lives is immense and her presence will be missed immensely. We learned strength from her.

Martha is survived by her husband Craig Plowman of Venice, FL, two daughters: Sandra Small and her husband Stephan of Martinsburg, WV, and Gail DeSantis and her husband Peter of Rivervale, NJ, one son Eric C. Plowman and his wife Kelly of Delanco, NJ, four grandchildren; Sam, Brooke, Kinsley, and Madison, and one sister Karen Rodriguez and her husband Edward of Inverness, FL, her cousin Gail Cahill of Pompton Plains, NJ and her adoring pets, her pup Toby and her bird Maggie.