Martha Proper Obituary

Martha Frances Proper, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on March 18, 2025, in Hartland, Michigan, at the age of 88. Born on January 22, 1937, in Newport, Arkansas, Martha's life was marked by her loving nature, her creative spirit, and her unwavering dedication to her family and community.
Martha's early years were spent with her parents, Ruben and Mildred (McCoy) Dawson, alongside her siblings Lynn, Clara, and Theresa. She was a proud descendant of her grandparents, Grover and Clara McCoy, and John and Mary Dawson. Her childhood in Arkansas laid the foundations for a life full of love, laughter, and the importance of family bonds.
After graduating from high school, Martha began what would become a fulfilling 30-year career with the Waterford Schools in Michigan. As an Instructional Technician, she devoted herself to the education and care of severely mentally and physically impaired students, touching countless lives with her compassion and patience. Martha's leadership skills shone brightly as she served as president of her union, where she played a crucial role in negotiating contracts that improved the working conditions for her colleagues.
The heart of Martha's life was her beloved family. She was joyously married to Rodney Proper on July 31, 1958, and together they shared 58 years of marriage filled with love and mutual respect until his passing on May 15, 2016. Their union was blessed with a daughter, Katrinka, who along with her husband Jerry Crabtree, gave Martha the joy of being a grandmother to Aaron and his wife Amy. Martha's family was the cornerstone of her existence, and she relished every moment spent with them, especially during holidays, birthdays, and cherished family gatherings.
Martha's vivacious personality was complemented by her diverse interests. She was an accomplished quilter and could often be found playing her beloved Mountain Dulcimer, immersed in a good book, or adding to her impressive collection of antiques and collectibles. Her weekends were frequently spent treasure hunting at the Salvation Army, thrift stores, flea markets, and garage sales. Martha's sense of adventure also led her to visit siblings in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina, and she eagerly anticipated the McCoy family reunion in Missouri, which she attended with her daughter.
Martha is survived by her daughter, Katrinka (Jerry) Crabtree; grandchildren, Aaron (Amy) Crabtree; siblings, Lynn (MaryLou) Dawson, Clara Carpenter, and Theresa (Larry) Sago. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruben and Mildred Dawson; her loving husband, Rodney Proper; and her cherished grandparents, Grover and Clara McCoy, and John and Mary Dawson. She will be deeply missed by all who loved her.
A visitation will be held for Martha from 12-2pm with a service beginning at 2pm on Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, MacDonald Chapel, 315 N. Michigan Ave., Howell, MI. All are welcome and encouraged to attend and celebrate Martha's life and legacy.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Martha's name to the Livingston County Animal Shelter.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Martha, please visit our floral store.