We, the family of Martha Edith Tabitha Diamond, are saddened to announce her passing on Monday, October 21, 2024.  During the early morning hours of that day, Martha became ill and shortly after, she quietly entered Heavens' gate.  The 85th Birthday celebration planned for October 22 was not to be.

Martha was born to Stephen and Hilda Jeans on October 22, 1939.  The first years of her life were spent on the North side of Lewisporte. She had little in material possessions but there was joy.  She delighted in catching butterflies with her brother, Dexter.  She watched in anticipation as her Dad and his dog team returned across the bay.  She was rich when snacking on damsons from the family tree. Shewarmly remembered snuggling under her Dad's bearskin coat when the nights were cold.  Her days were spent watching over toddler sister Dorothy, baby brother Robert, and playing with special friend Gertie. That friendship continued into retirement.

When Martha was 8 years of age her dad developed tuberculosis and passed away. This was a time of great turbulence in Martha's life.  The family was separated.  Her brother Robert found his way to Change Islands.  Her brother Dexter went to live with family in Bishop's Falls. Martha and her younger sister Dorothy were sent to the St. Michael's Belvedeere orphanage in St. John's.  Her more pleasant memories there were of a special friend Jeanette and her family who often invited her to join them on family excursions. She loved to swim, roller skate and enjoyed walks in Bowring Park.

Years passed and eventually Martha and Dorothy returned to live with their mother in Gander Bay.  Martha eventually went to live with Maisie and Stanley Snow.  She always remembered that time with much love and gratitude.  The twist and turns of life eventually found a 16 year old Martha embarking on a new journey as she traveled to Change Islands. She was invited to visit her brother Robert.   A short trip to stay with Aunt MaryAnn  and Uncle Leslie Cave lead to a child care position with The Salvation Army Officers and eventually to marriage. Martha and Llewellyn Diamond shared over 50 years together.  Martha's family circle increased.  Aunt Lizzie and Uncle Bob and Uncle Cecil and Uncle Frank and Gran Bursey all became her family.

Martha and Llewellyn were blessed with three children.

Martha will be dearly missed by daughter Gloria, son Basil and wife Sherry, daughter Colleen and husband Berkley.   Martha will be forever loved by grandchildren who adored her.   She will be remembered always by neighbors Carl and Colleen.  She shared special relationships with Margaret and Eric, Clara and Roy, Bob and Lydia, Samuel Leyte and Margaret Jeans.  She enjoyed the love, visits and hugs of many nieces and nephews.  Martha loved her community and will be missed by the many children, teens, and adults with whom she shared her love and gentle nature.

Special thanks to Home Care Workers Elaine, Sherry, and Florence.  Mom enjoyed laughter, love, and precious time in the house she loved because of your love and faithfulness.

The family would like to send thanks to the staff and residents of Fogo Island Health Center Long Term Care for two and a half years of caring for and enriching Martha's life in so many ways.  Your love and kindness will never be forgotten.  Special thanks to Rita Coles who welcomed Martha as a roommate and offered the priceless gift of friendship.  Thanks to all residents of Fogo Island, Change Islands, and extended family and friends who have visited and shared life's journey with our Mom.

Visitation will take place from The Salvation Army Church, Change Islands, NL on Thursday, October 24, 2024 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm and Friday, October 25, 2024 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm.

The Funeral Service will be held at The Salvation Army Church, Change Islands, NL on Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 1pm. Interment will follow at The Salvation Army Cemetery, Change Islands.

As expressions of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, donations to The Salvation Army Cemetery Fund, Change Islands would be gratefully accepted. E-transfers can be sent to colleenjbown@gmail.com .  Please include your name and address in the subject line when doing so.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gordon Woolfrey Funeral Home, 262 Main Street, Lewisporte, NL.