Helen Martin

Helen A. Martin, 88, Pittsburg, Kansas, (formerly of Mindenmines, Mo.) passed away Friday, March 18, 2011 at Via Christi Hospital, Pittsburg, Kansas. Helen was born September 8, 1922 to Nathaniel and Gertrude (Maples) Alcorn in Lesterville, Mo. She worked as a certified nursing assistant and as a homemaker. Helen was a member of the Mindenmines Christian Church; a member of the Friendly Circle Club for over 50 years; and a member of the Red Hatters. She was proud of her Ozark Heritage. She was a dedicated Democrat and never voted Republican except for "Billie" Griffitt. Helen married Ralph Gilbert Martin on March 22, 1943 at St. Louis, Mo. He preceded her in death on December 26, 2000. Survivors include two sons, Jim Martin of Mindenmines, Mo., and Ed Martin of Pittsburg, Ks.; four daughters, Judy Martin of Eugene, Oregon, Jeannie Martin Webb of Jefferson City, Mo., Heidi Lanz of Liberal, Mo., and Joni Martin of Iantha, Mo.; a sister Eileen Riffey of Carlinville, Illinois; fourteen grandchildren; and twenty-two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a son, Tim Martin.