Alma Ruth Martin

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alma Ruth Martin, known affectionately as MawMaw or Ole MawMaw, who left us peacefully on May 12, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on December 11, 1935, Ruth lived a life full of love, laughter, and the wonderful aroma of her famous banana pudding and schoolhouse rolls. A dedicated housewife and an extraordinary mother, she poured her heart into her family, ensuring that everyone felt welcome around her sunlit kitchen table.Ruth graduated from Westlake High School and became a faithful member of Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church, where she shared her vibrant spirit and love for Jesus as the Director of the Women's Cursillo Movement. One of her most cherished traditions was hosting Sunday dinners, where family and friends gathered in joyful celebration-her home always felt more like a haven than just a residence. She taught us all the true meaning of unconditional love, instilling in us the importance of forgiveness and togetherness, encouraging us to resolve our differences before the day's end.

Ruth leaves behind her beloved children, Mitch Martin, Donnie Martin (Teresa), Lisa Martin (Connie), and Tara Reeves (Darrin). She also is survived by her loving sister, Jeanne Brown, and an incredible legacy of 21 grandchildren, 78 great-grandchildren, and 18 great-great-grandchildren. She is greeted in heaven by her loving husband, Michel Preston Martin Sr., her son Mark Wayne, cherished grandchildren Samuel and Nathaniel, her dear parents, Harvey and Marie Slaydon, along with her brothers Jimmy and David Slaydon, and her sister Margaret Slaydon.

To celebrate Ruth's remarkable life and the love she shared, a public viewing will be held at Johnson Funeral Home of Sulphur on Thursday, May 14, 2026, starting at 4:00 pm until 8 PM. A Cursillo Rosary will be held at 6:30 PM on Thursday. Visitation will resume Friday at 10 AM until we leave for Mass. A Mass in her memory will take place at Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 1:00 pm, followed by her burial at 2:00 pm at the Prien Memorial Park cemetery located at 2220 Country Club Rd., LA 70605.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that Masses be offered in her honor. 

Ruth's spirit will continue to inspire us, reminding us to love fully, forgive quickly, and gather around the table-where there's always a place for everyone. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.