Martha Ann Ogden Benjamin, 57, of Essex Junction, Vt., passed peacefully into the next stage surrounded by family and friends on Aug. 1, at her daughter’s home in Georgia, Vt.
Martha was born in New Bedford, Mass. on Nov. 14, 1955 and spent her early years in Dartmouth. She was fond of the Cape and the ocean, her heritage and the history of her family.
Martha was a strong woman with deep beliefs in the spiritual world, the balance of alternative and traditional medicine, art as a form of emotional communication and the delicate balance between the mind, spirit and heart. As National Director of Health Coaching, Engagement and Motivational Interviewing at Marathon Health, she was able to combine many of these important facets of her life to educate and support a variety of individuals from all over the globe and from many walks of life.
A loving mother, devoted daughter and sister, a doting grandmother and a wonderful companion to many, Martha touched many lives through her passion for life. In all of her accomplishments, goals, struggles and triumphs, Martha had a deeper strength that she relied on, a strong purpose and knowledge of who she was, what she wanted, and very often, how she was going to get there. She was loved by many for her insightful lessons, her compassionate bedside manner and coaching, and her deep dedication to the well being of all.
Martha is survived by her son, Christopher Benjamin and wife Kristi; grandchildren, Faith and James; daughter, Jessica Fike and husband Zachariah, and soon-to-be grandson; mother, Faith Ogden of New Harbor; sisters, Beth Ogden, Susan Harwood and husband Paul, Wendy Ogden and Jennifer Ogden of Damariscotta; brother, Bradford Ogden and wife Sharon; dear friend, Stephen Walsh; and extended family that includes many nieces, nephews, and other close relatives.
There will be a memorial service and burial at the Smith Neck Meeting House in South Dartmouth, Mass., 10 a.m., Mon., Aug. 12.
