Nancy L. Martin passed away peacefully on October 6, 2025. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose adventurous spirit and warm heart touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Nancy was born to the late James and Betty Somerville and was preceded in death by her brother, Jimmy Somerville, and her son, John Tombesi. She is survived by her devoted husband, Philip Martin; her loving daughter, Gina Baumgartner (Jason); and her cherished grandchildren, Corban and Jasper. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Harriett Somerville and her cousin Martha Ellen Stortz along with many extended family members and dear friends.

Nancy was a proud 1964 graduate of Dover High School, where she began cultivating the creativity and determination that would define her life. She went on to study Home Economics at the University of Delaware, majoring in textiles. In the summer of 1965, she embarked on the adventure of a lifetime, traveling throughout Europe on a textiles tour, visiting world-renowned fashion houses and textile production centers This experience fueled her lifelong love of fashion and travel.

In the 1960s, Nancy worked as a model and junior designer for John Meyer of Norwich, blending her natural elegance with a sharp eye for design. Her professional life was just as dynamic as her personal one: she was the owner of the Dover and Milford Newsstands, a real estate agent for Harrington Realty, and later a bookkeeper for The Hubcaps and TSMB Production. She retired from UPS in 2005 after years of dedicated service. During her retirement, she worked part time as a lunch lady in the Smyrna school district.

Nancy was never one to shy away from an adventure. In her younger years, she loved skiing, swimming, traveling, dancing, and baking. Nancy was an active member of ABATE and The Well Armed Woman, and she loved her Jazzercise community.

Later in life, her adventurous spirit found its perfect match on the open road. She and Phil traveled the country by motorcycle, making unforgettable memories together. In 2009, Nancy faced her fears and rode her motorcycle up Mount Washington. She also rode through the towering redwood trees, crossed the Golden Gate Bridge, and traveled Route 66 all the way to Winslow, Arizona. She enthusiastically attended bike weeks across the country, Myrtle Beach and Sturgis seven times, Daytona and Laconia twice. She crossed the Continental divide six times and impressively rode her motorcycle in 47 states.

At home, Nancy loved spending time with her grandchildren, baking, and relaxing on the front porch of their log home with Phil, watching hummingbirds flutter by. These quiet moments balanced a life rich with adventure, laughter, and love.

Nancy’s strength, humor, and zest for life will be deeply missed. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, joy, and unforgettable memories that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main Street in Smyrna. Memorial services will begin at 12:00 PM, followed by burial at Lakeside Cemetery in Dover, Delaware.

Motorcycles are welcome, and in honor of Nancy’s love of riding, there will be a motorcycle procession to the cemetery following the service.