Martha W. Skeen
Martha W. Skeen, 97, of Carlsbad, New Mexico passed away on Friday, February 11, 2022, at her home surrounded by family. Martha was born on February 2, 1925, to Francis and Hester Woolley at home in Benson County, ND.
There will be no visitation, and a Celebration of Life service is scheduled for 2:00 PM Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at First Baptist Church with Pastor Jimmy Ryan officiating. Following, interment will take place at the Carlsbad Cemetery in Carlsbad, NM. Denton-Wood Funeral Home is in charge of making arrangements.
After high school, Martha moved to Great Falls, MT and worked in a bank there. She met the love of her life, Kelly Skeen at a USO dance in Great Falls, MT during WWII. They were married on October 8, 1944. After Kelly was released from the service, they moved back to Carlsbad in 1945, and started their family of four children. They went into business with Kelly’s parents at Skeen Furniture store. Eventually they bought land in the Otis area and began farming. After Kelly’s passing in 1981, Martha continued operating Skeen Furniture, farming and started ranching. Martha was also a lover of music, and skillfully played the piano for many years. She also shared her talent with several churches in the area, by playing during their worship services.
Martha was preceded in death by her father, Francis Woolley; mother, Hester Woolley; husband, Kelly Skeen; son, Curtis Skeen; granddaughter, Jill Marie Skeen; and six siblings.
Martha is survived by her three children: Linda S. Jurva of Carlsbad, NM; Sharon S. McPherson of Macomb, MO; and Charles A. Skeen and wife, Candace of Roswell, NM; daughter-in-law, Carole Skeen of Carlsbad, NM; nine grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren.
The family would like to give a special thanks to Martha four care givers: Monica, Laraine, Ashley, and Janet. And to the Lakeview Hospice staff. In Lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial contribution be made out to Mission New Mexico: Online Giving .
