Mary Jean Martin, 90, Passes Away; Community Mourns Beloved Figure
BREAKING NEWS: Mary Jean Martin, a cherished member of the New Hampton community, has died at the age of 90 after a long and fulfilling life. She passed away on November 19, 2025, at MercyOne New Hampton Medical Center, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and community service.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Holy Family Parish in New Hampton, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her life. Prior to the Mass, a public Rosary will be held at 8:30 a.m., followed by a visitation from 9 to 11 a.m.. The community is invited to come together to honor her memory and support her family during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, Mary Jean requested that memorials be directed to St. Joseph Community School, reflecting her lifelong commitment to education and community welfare.
Born on March 19, 1935, to James and Viola (Halbur) Collins in New Hampton, Mary Jean was the youngest of four siblings. She began her education at St. Joseph’s Catholic School and graduated from New Hampton High School in 1954. In 1957, she married Joseph Martin from Lawler, embarking on a 37-year journey of marriage until his passing in 1994.
Throughout her career, Mary Jean worked at various respected local establishments, including JCPenney, First National Bank, and Conway-Markham Funeral Home. Known for her warm smile and compassionate spirit, her vocation was more than a job; it was a calling. She dedicated herself to serving others until the age of 85, touching countless lives along the way.
Beyond her professional achievements, Mary Jean embraced life with joy. Her simple pleasures included playing cards, dancing, and enjoying evenings filled with bingo. Deeply rooted in her faith, Mary Jean prayed the Rosary daily—an enduring practice that sustained her for over 75 years. Her spirituality was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted member of Holy Family Parish.
Mary Jean is survived by her sister-in-law, Pat Martin of Marion, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband Joe, siblings Elaine (William) Costigan, Walter (Lorraine) Collins, Anna Mae Roethler, and her cherished friend Paul Johnson.
As the community mourns this profound loss, many reflect on the significant impact Mary Jean had on their lives. Her spirit will continue to resonate within New Hampton, where she fostered connections and built lasting friendships.
Funeral services will provide an opportunity for the community to gather, share memories, and celebrate a remarkable life well lived. The outpouring of love and support for Mary Jean and her family exemplifies the community spirit she embodied throughout her life.
Stay tuned for updates and tributes as the community comes together to honor Mary Jean Martin’s legacy.
