Honor Carroll Martin

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Honor Carroll Martin, a woman whose name truly reflected the grace, dignity, and warmth she brought to every life she touched. Honor passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and quiet strength.

Born into a proud Irish Catholic family in Buffalo, New York, Honor was deeply connected to her heritage. Her love of Irish culture ran through every part of her life — from her ability to sing the Irish national anthem in Gaelic to listening to bagpipes and watching Irish dancers. She had a beautiful singing voice and found joy in sharing music with those around her. A woman of remarkable intellect and compassion, Honor earned a Master of Science in Education from Niagara University. She began her professional life as a reading specialist in North Manchester, Indiana. Later in life, driven by her innate desire to care for others, Honor returned to Niagara to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Nursing. She began a second career as a nurse before transitioning into healthcare administration, where she rose to several director and vice president roles. In 2018, she retired and began her journey as a healthcare consultant.

Her faith remained the cornerstone of her life. A proud graduate of Holy Angels Academy, Honor’s deep commitment to the Catholic Church shaped her values and her service to others. She met the love of her life, Dr. William Martin, in Buffalo, and the two were married in 1975. Together, they built a beautiful life, welcoming two children and filling their home with love, music, and laughter. Honor had a gift for making those around her feel cherished. She had a keen eye for selecting meaningful cards, thoughtful gifts, and special treasures that showed just how much she cared. An excellent cook and baker, her kitchen was always filled with warmth and the smell of something delicious in the oven. Weekends were often spent antiquing with Bill, followed by peaceful evenings at their lake house, a place of joy and relaxation.

She adored spending time shopping with her sisters, daughter, and nieces, always with a sharp fashion sense. Her style was impeccable—elegant, classic, and entirely her own. She had a deep appreciation for vintage jewelry, floral arrangements, and Waterford crystal, all of which reflected her artistic flair and eye for beauty. A lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills, Honor never missed a game and often sent her “predictions” to her daughter before kickoff. She also loved Notre Dame football, attending several games while living in South Bend with Bill. Honor leaves behind a legacy not only of professional accomplishments but of deep personal connections, acts of love, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. She was—and always will be—tremendously loved by all who knew her. May her soul rest in peace, and may her memory be a blessing.

Honor was the beloved wife of 49 years to the late William J. Martin, PhD.; loving mother of Meghan (Richard) Rys and the late Brendan Martin; dear sister of Mary Bride (John) Wideman, the late Lawrence (Heather) Sams and the late Sheila (Edmond) Collum; sister-in-law of the late John (Susan) and the late Daniel (Christine) Martin. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends may call Monday, April 28th from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at All Saints RC Church, 76 Church St., Lockport, where a Mass of Christian Burial will follow the visitation at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Honor’s memory may be made to Sisters of Saint Joseph, 4975 Strickler Rd., Clarence, New York 14031. Online condolences to denglerrobertspernafuneral.com