Born in Monroe and raised in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, Martha attended Grosse Pointe Country Day School before continuing her education at Smith College. It was here where she met the love of her life, Richard Allan Speer of Stamford, Connecticut who was attending Amherst College. The couple returned to Grosse Pointe to marry and build their life together. Except for the two years spent overseas in Germany, Martha and Richard made Grosse Pointe their lifelong home, where they raised four children and created countless cherished memories.

Martha was the heart of her family—a proud and dedicated mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who treasured every moment with her loved ones. Her warmth, elegance, and unwavering support touched everyone who knew her. She was known for her positive attitude, infectious energy, and wonderful sense of humor that brought laughter and light into the lives of all around her.

A woman of many interests, Martha was a diehard Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers fan who never missed a chance to cheer on her teams. She was an avid golfer, skilled bridge player, and enthusiastic world traveler. She was never without a crossword puzzle, a great book, a needlepoint or knitting project. Known as a dapper dresser with impeccable style, she brought grace and joy to every occasion. Martha was also the cofounder and proprietor of the Pointe Peddler, where her entrepreneurial spirit and community connection flourished. She cherished spending time with family and extended family up north in Omena, where many treasured memories were made enjoying the bay!

Martha was a devoted and active member of Grosse Pointe Memorial Church (82+ years), a lifetime member of the Country Club of Detroit, and a member of the Tau Beta Association. She was actively involved in the Junior League of Detroit and the Grosse Pointe Garden Club and dedicated countless hours to numerous volunteer opportunities throughout her life. Her faith, friendships, and community involvement were cornerstones of her rich and fulfilling life.

Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 50 years, Richard Allan Speer; her daughter, Emily Speer Bedford; and her brother, Bayard Johnson.

She is survived by her children: Suzanne Speer Martin (Wayne), Lisa Speer Tille (Steve), and Richard Speer (Betsy); her grandchildren: Elizabeth Henderson, Jennifer Tille, Tripp Henderson (Allison), Katie Tille, Andrew Speer (Andra), Michael Speer (Phillipa), Blake Bedford, Brooke Bedford Weese (Ben), and Maya Speer; and her great-grandchildren: Jack, Charlie, and Quinn Henderson, George Speer, and Millie and Scarlett Weese.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made in Martha’s name to Grosse Pointe Memorial Church (16 Lake Shore Dr, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236).

Martha’s life was a beautiful testament to love, family, and community. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.