Ruth”Granny” Cena Simpkins Martin

October 30, 1924 - September 22, 2024

Ruth “Granny” Cena Simpkins Martin, 99, of Pilot, passed away on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at home surrounded by her loving family. Granny was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ethel Simpkins; husband, Thomas Martin; brother, Ralph (Kathleen) Simpkins; sister, Nannie Mae “Tootsie” (Ronnie) Marshall; and special great-grandson Daniel Poff.

Granny dedicated her life and legacy to the care of others. Whether you needed a warm meal, a place to sleep, or a bonafide childcare professional, Granny would be the first person in line to help. Her top priority was the care of her family - she played an integral part in supporting her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren; however, the depths of "family" knew no bounds with Granny. She opened her home to the neighborhood and babysat for anyone that needed the extra help - never expecting a dime. Unconditional love didn't stop there though. Granny loved feathered and four legged friends just the same. She lived many years with her pet cockatiel, Myrtle, and beagle, Hank; even though Myrtle was a handful, she met his every need and cooked daily meals for Hank to enjoy. She accepted several feisty kitties into her home as companions, while also feeding the feral cats at her previous home in Warm Hearth Village. In her last years, she grew very attached to her special grand pups - Charlie and Tucker, who will miss her greatly. 

While Granny was best known for caregiving, you also would never leave her house hungry. All meals were minimum 4-courses, and truly delicious. Granny shared many great recipes through the years, serving as pieces of her legacy that we will cherish forever. 

Granny is survived by her daughter, Beverly Palmer; grandchildren, John (Jean) Oliver, Reva (Dale) Poff, Tommy (Joann) Oliver, Peter (Priscilla) Palmer; great grandchildren, Jacob (Kaylynn) Oliver, Amanda Oliver, Tyler (Emily) Oliver, Evan Poff, Jonathan Palmer, Nathan Palmer, Alex (Lindsey) Poff, Kendra Thomas, Levi Palmer; 14 great-great grandchildren; brother Jimmy (Iris) Simpkins; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family; special nephew Richard (Alieta) Marshall; special niece Hilda Roberts.

A celebration of her beautiful and prosperous life will be held at a later date.

"Granny" Martin was always so kind to both of us. We always enjoyed visiting with her. We especially enjoyed spending some time with her at the beach last Fall and celebrating her birthday there. Rest in peace Granny Ruth.