Betty 'Grandma' Martin, 103
Betty Lou (Artz) Martin, May 28, 1922 – May 28, 2025
“Grandma” Betty Lou Martin, age 103, went home to be with the Lord on her 103rd birthday, May 28, 2025. Her long life was a testament to her unwavering faith — something she often pointed to as the secret to her many years:
“I spent my life walking with the Lord.”
Betty was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and grew up in Whitefish, Mont. She spent many years living in Spokane, Wash., and Great Falls, Mont., where she was a devoted member of the Great Falls Church of the Nazarene. In 2018, she moved to Post Falls, Idaho, where she continued to worship and serve at Post Falls Church of the Nazarene.
Betty dedicated her life to sharing the love of Jesus with others, especially children. She served for many years as the Director of Child Evangelism Fellowship in Montana, and regularly hosted Good News Club gatherings for children, teaching them Bible stories, songs, and the hope of the Gospel. Her faith wasn’t just something she practiced Sundays — it was the foundation of her daily life and service.
She also gave years of her time as a foster grandparent, reading with children in local schools who all knew and loved her as “Grandma Betty.” Her nurturing spirit, quiet strength and deep love for others left a lasting impact on generations.
Betty was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leslie Albert Martin, and her daughter, Leslie Martin Smith. She is survived by her children Diana Earles (Lonny), David Martin (Pamela), and Timothy Martin (Susan); her grandchildren David Duddleston, Nick Martin, Sarah Martin, David Miller, Crystal Martin and Kaycie Miller; and many great-grandchildren and extended family members who will carry her memory forward with love and gratitude. She also played a special role in helping raise her grandchildren, David Miller, Crystal Martin and Kaycie Miller, who will always cherish her loving guidance and presence in their lives.
A memorial service to celebrate Betty’s life will be held Sunday, June 22, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Post Falls Church of the Nazarene. A potluck lunch will take place immediately following the 10 a.m. service in the fellowship hall, with the memorial service to follow in the sanctuary. Betty will be laid to rest beside her husband at Willamette National Cemetery.
Her legacy of faith, kindness and service lives on in all who were blessed to know her.
Martin