Martha M. Sterrett

Martha M. Sterrett, 82, of West Hartford, CT passed away on Tuesday, December 15, surrounded by family at home. Martha was born in Germany on September 20, 1938 and was the daughter of the late Hermann and Elisabeth (Schnackenberg) Schroeder.

Known for her strength and perseverance, she overcame the loss of both parents and emigrated to the Bronx, New York alone at age 13. She was the personification of the American dream, a hard worker who broke through many barriers with just a high school education. She began her career at a shipping company in New York City, worked for the Union Pacific Railroad, and for Sheraton and Hilton Hotels, rising to Director of Sales & Marketing. She sacrificed much to provide a better future for her boys. After a successful career, she spent the majority of her time traveling, volunteering, caring for others and working part time at Duncaster senior living. A deeply spiritual person who believed all were welcome at God’s table, she was a five-decade-long member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Bristol and a tireless leader and volunteer there. She cared deeply about peace and justice and volunteered for many organizations, including the Koinonia board at the Blue Gentian Lodge. A lifelong learner, she was interested in all aspects of the world around her. She was a devoted and faithful friend as well as a lover of music and theater.

She loved her children and grandchildren and is survived by two sons: Peter Sterrett and wife Diane of Tiverton, RI, and Patrick Sterrett and wife Lori of Flower Mound, TX; three grandchildren: Michael, Travis and wife Alex, and Zachary; as well as many extended family members in Germany.

An outdoor memorial service will be celebrated on Sunday, December 20, at 1 p.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 355 Camp St., Bristol. All are welcome. Attendees may stay in their cars and the service will be over a PA system. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. Please visit Martha’s memorial website at www.FunkFuneralHome.com.