Martha Featherstone

Martha Featherstone, 95, longtime resident of Roswell, passed away in her home, Thursday, June 9, 2011 surrounded by her family and friends. She was born June 19, 1915 in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada where she was one of five children born to Charles A. Sopp and Dovey R. Thomson Sopp. She earned her nursing degree in Canada, received surgical training at Brandon General Hospital, and triage training at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, NY. She came to Artesia, NM as a charge nurse. While in Artesia she met and fell in love with Olen Fredric Featherstone. They married on June 1, 1940 at St. Matthews Episcopal Church in Brandon, Manitoba, Canada and settled in New Mexico. She was a founding member of the Roswell Service League, which is now known as Assistance League of Chaves County.

Martha loved to travel, even occasionally taking her grandchildren with her on her many adventures. When her grandchildren developed a love of horseback riding, she built The Stables in Roswell, NM. For many years, several young people enjoyed formal equestrian training, competition, leadership, and fellowship forming lasting friendships. During her many years in Roswell, NM, Martha remained dedicated to nursing, the Assistance League, various philanthropic organizations, art and education.

Martha is survived by her sister Jessie Sopp Kinahan of Aurora, CO her son Joe Featherstone and his wife Charla of Roswell grandchildren Tres Featherstone and his wife Lilly and Angela Naranjo and her husband Shawn all of Roswell great grandchildren Nicholas and Elissa Featherstone, Darby Naranjo, John and Megan Huggard all of Roswell nephews Van Kinahan and his wife Beverly and Scott Kinahan all of Aurora, CO grand nieces Erin and Shannon.

Martha and her family owe a special thanks to those at Peachtree Village, Roswell Comfort Keepers and Vista Care for the love and care they provided her.

At Marthas request, a private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to send memorials to the Assistance League of Chaves County, 2601 North Aspen Ave, Roswell, NM 88201 or a nonprofit or charity of the donors choice.

Memorial Contributions