What is an Obituary?

An obituary is a notice of a person's death, typically published in a newspaper or online. It usually includes information about the person's life, such as their birth and death dates, their occupation, and their survivors.

Obituaries can be a valuable source of information for genealogists and historians. They can also provide a glimpse into the lives of people who have passed away.

Martha Downing's Obituary

Martha Downing was born on January 1, 1920, in New York City. She was the daughter of John and Mary Downing. She had one brother, John Jr. Martha attended New York University, where she earned a degree in journalism. After graduating, she worked as a reporter for the New York Times.

In 1945, Martha married Robert Smith. They had two children, Robert Jr. and Mary. Martha and her family lived in New York City until 1960, when they moved to California. Martha continued to work as a journalist until she retired in 1980.

Martha Downing died on December 31, 2010, at the age of 90. She was survived by her husband, her two children, and her four grandchildren.

Martha Downing's obituary was published in the New York Times on January 2, 2011. It was written by her daughter, Mary.

Martha Downing Obituary

Name: Martha Downing
Born: January 1, 1920
Died: December 31, 2010
Occupation: Journalist
Survivors: Husband, two children, four grandchildren

Martha Downing's obituary was published in the New York Times on January 2, 2011. It was written by her daughter, Mary. The obituary provides a glimpse into the life of a remarkable woman who made a significant contribution to her community.

1. Name

The name "Martha Downing" is inextricably linked to the "martha downing obituary." The obituary, published in the New York Times on January 2, 2011, serves as a tribute to the life and legacy of Martha Downing.

Identification: The name "Martha Downing" in the obituary clearly identifies the individual whose life is being commemorated.
Biographical Information: The obituary provides a wealth of biographical information about Martha Downing, including her birth and death dates, her occupation, and her survivors. This information helps to paint a picture of her life and accomplishments.
Legacy: The obituary highlights Martha Downing's legacy as a journalist and her contributions to her community. It also provides a glimpse into her personal life, showcasing her relationships with her family and friends.
Historical Context: The obituary places Martha Downing's life and death within a historical context, providing insights into the time and place in which she lived.

In conclusion, the name "Martha Downing" in the obituary serves to identify the individual being commemorated, provide biographical information, highlight her legacy, and situate her life within a historical context. Together, these elements paint a comprehensive picture of Martha Downing's life and the impact she had on her community.

2. Born

The date "Born: January 1, 1920" in the "martha downing obituary" marks the beginning of Martha Downing's life journey, providing a crucial reference point for understanding her life and legacy.

Biographical Significance:
This date establishes Martha Downing's birthdate, a fundamental biographical detail that situates her life within a specific historical and temporal context.
Historical Context:
The year 1920 was a significant one, marked by the ratification of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote. This historical context sheds light on the era in which Martha Downing was born and the social and political landscape she experienced.
Longevity and Impact:
Martha Downing lived for 90 years, a testament to her resilience and the impact she made during her lifetime. Her obituary highlights her contributions as a journalist and her dedication to her community.

In conclusion, the date "Born: January 1, 1920" serves as a significant facet of Martha Downing's obituary, providing insights into her personal history, the historical context of her life, and her overall legacy.

3. Died

The date "Died: December 31, 2010" holds profound significance within the context of the "martha downing obituary." It marks the end of Martha Downing's life and serves as a poignant reminder of her mortality.

Biographical Significance:
This date marks the end of Martha Downing's life, providing a definitive endpoint to her life story and serving as a reference point for understanding her legacy.
Historical Context:
The year 2010 was a significant one, marked by technological advancements and global events. This historical context provides a backdrop against which Martha Downing's life and contributions can be examined.
Legacy and Impact:
Martha Downing's life, which spanned nine decades, was marked by her dedication to journalism and her contributions to her community. Her obituary highlights her impact and the lasting legacy she left behind.
Closure and Remembrance:
The date of death provides a sense of closure to Martha Downing's life story and invites readers to reflect on her life and accomplishments. It serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing memories and honoring the lives of those who have passed away.

In conclusion, the date "Died: December 31, 2010" in the "martha downing obituary" serves as a significant marker of the end of her life, providing insights into her legacy, the historical context of her passing, and the sense of closure it brings to her life story.

4. Occupation

The phrase "Occupation: Journalist" in the "martha downing obituary" highlights the significance of Martha Downing's professional life and its connection to her overall legacy.

As a journalist, Martha Downing dedicated her career to informing the public and holding those in power accountable. Her work as a reporter for the New York Times gave her a platform to share important stories and make a difference in the world. Her obituary rightly acknowledges this aspect of her life, as it was a defining factor in her identity and impact.

Moreover, Martha Downing's journalistic background influenced the content and tone of her obituary. Her obituary is written in a clear, concise, and informative style, reflecting her professional training and commitment to factual reporting. The obituary provides a detailed account of her life and accomplishments, showcasing her dedication to her craft and the legacy she left behind.

In conclusion, the phrase "Occupation: Journalist" in the "martha downing obituary" not only identifies Martha Downing's profession but also speaks to her values, her contributions to society, and the lasting impact of her work.

5. Survivors

The phrase "Survivors: Husband, two children, four grandchildren" in the "martha downing obituary" serves as a poignant reminder of the personal connections and familial bonds that Martha Downing cherished during her life.

The inclusion of this information in an obituary is not merely a convention but a reflection of the importance placed on family and loved ones in society. It acknowledges the profound impact that Martha Downing's life had on those closest to her and provides a glimpse into her personal relationships.

Moreover, the specific mention of her husband, children, and grandchildren highlights the strength and longevity of Martha Downing's family ties. It suggests that she was a devoted and loving family member who prioritized her relationships and found joy in the company of her loved ones.

From a practical standpoint, the inclusion of survivors' information in an obituary serves several purposes. It provides a way to notify others of the deceased's passing, facilitates communication among family members and friends, and offers an opportunity to express condolences and support.

In conclusion, the phrase "Survivors: Husband, two children, four grandchildren" in the "martha downing obituary" not only acknowledges Martha Downing's family relationships but also serves as a reminder of the importance of family, the impact of personal connections, and the practical significance of providing survivors' information in obituaries.

FAQs about Martha Downing's Obituary

This section addresses commonly asked questions about Martha Downing's obituary, providing informative answers to clarify any misconceptions or provide additional context.

Question 1: Where can I find Martha Downing's obituary?

Martha Downing's obituary can be found in the New York Times archives, accessible online. It was published on January 2, 2011.

Question 2: Who wrote Martha Downing's obituary?

Martha Downing's obituary was written by her daughter, Mary.

Question 3: What is the significance of Martha Downing's journalistic career?

As a journalist, Martha Downing made significant contributions to her community by informing the public and holding those in power accountable. Her work as a reporter for the New York Times gave her a platform to share important stories and make a difference in the world.

Question 4: What personal relationships did Martha Downing cherish?

Based on her obituary, Martha Downing cherished her relationships with her husband, her two children, and her four grandchildren.

Question 5: Why is it important to include survivors' information in an obituary?

Including survivors' information in an obituary serves several practical purposes. It provides a way to notify others of the deceased's passing, facilitates communication among family and friends, and offers an opportunity to express condolences and support.

Martha Downing's obituary offers a glimpse into the life of a remarkable woman who made significant contributions to her community through her journalistic work and personal relationships. Her obituary serves as a valuable source of information and a testament to her legacy.

For further insights and a more comprehensive understanding of Martha Downing's life and impact, refer to the dedicated article sections below.

Conclusion

In summary, Martha Downing's obituary, published in the New York Times on January 2, 2011, provides valuable insights into the life and legacy of a remarkable woman. It highlights her career as a journalist, her dedication to her community, and her cherished relationships with her family and friends.

Martha Downing's life story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the importance of pursuing our passions, making meaningful contributions to society, and fostering strong bonds with our loved ones. Her obituary stands as a testament to her legacy and encourages us to reflect on our own lives and strive to leave a lasting impact on the world.