MARTIN, Doris May – Age 90, of Petite Rivere. It is with profound sadness and heartfelt gratitude that we announce the peaceful passing of Doris May (Hanna) Martin on May 6, 2026, at her home. Born on September 23, 1935, in the village of Warden, Quebec, Doris was the cherished daughter of Clarence and Anita (Senay) Hanna. Her life, spanning over nine decades, was a testament to love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family and community.
Doris was predeceased by her loving husband, Harlan Martin, with whom she shared 56 years of marriage; her dear brother, Howard Hanna; sister-in-law, Eileen Martin; and her daughter-in-law, Anne-Marie Robichaud. Together with Harlan, Doris crafted a life rich with devotion and love, beginning with their marriage on October 19, 1957. They called South Stukely, Quebec their home before embarking on new adventures in Wilmont, Nova Scotia, in 1971, and later settling in Weston, NS in 1986.
Doris‘s legacy lives on in her children, Craig Martin, Port Elgin, NB; Myra (Joseph) Layton, Bonnyville AB; Carol Martin (Steve McKenzie), Petite Riviere, NS; and Jane (Tim) Johnston, Truro, NS. Her nurturing spirit and generous heart continue to inspire her grandchildren, Tianna (Shawn) Nicol, Jeremy Layton (Randi Martin), and Virgil Johnston, as well as her two great-grandchildren, Indie and Kade, who brought great joy to her golden years. She is survived also by her sister-in-law Sharon (White) Hanna.
A woman of many talents, Doris was known for her green thumb, always maintaining a large, flourishing garden. Her hands were rarely idle, whether she was tending to her plants, working on her latest rug hooking project, or attending a community event. Doris was an active member of the Anglican Church women (ACW) and the Women’s Institute, where her efforts strengthened the community bonds, she held dear. She participated in local events, from birthday parties to socials, leaving her mark on numerous lives. More than anything, Doris cherished the time spent with her family and friends at Orford Lake, where laughter echoed and memories were made. She and Harlan also loved to take road trips, whether epic cross-country ones, or exploring near home. Her home was a sanctuary of warmth and welcome, where anyone in need found a helping hand and a compassionate heart.
As we remember Doris, we do so with gratitude, as expressed in the words of Thornton Wilder: “The greatest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.” We are forever thankful for the love and light she brought into our lives, and we find solace in the enduring impact of her spirit.
A memorial service to celebrate Doris‘s life will be held at a later date, at Christ Church Anglican, in Berwick, NS. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to Valley Regional Hospital Foundation. Arrangements entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home, Bridgewater where online memorial donations and condolences may be made by visiting www.sweenysfuneralhome.com.
