Martha Carolyn James 1949-2025
PAYSON, Ariz. — Martha Carolyn James, 75, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025, at home, surrounded by her loved ones, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Martha was born Dec. 16, 1949, in Warren, where she was raised and met the love of her life, Albert. They married in 1968, and Martha became a devoted military wife, following and supporting her husband throughout his 21-year career, traveling across the globe. Her love of people and caring nature also guided her to a career as a licensed practical nurse.
After Albert’s retirement from the Army, Albert and Martha settled in Phoenix, where she continued her career as a nurse until her retirement in 2014. The couple decided to move to northwestern Arizona, living in several locations before settling for the peaceful life in Payson in 2017.
Martha was an active member of the Phoenix-area Hummel Club and dedicated to supporting veterans’ affairs in the Payson area.
Martha was preceded in death by her mother, Betty Weese.
She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Albert James Sr.; her children, Christina, Albert Jr. (Dawn) and Sara; her grandchildren, Megan (Patrick) Gillespie, Elizabeth, Abigail and Lucas.
A celebration of life took place Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025, in Phoenix.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Phoenix Children’s Hospital, phoenixchildrens.org; or Veterans Helping Veterans of Payson, Arizona, vhvinc.org.
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