Martha (Lahita) Sayles
October 20, 1947 - December 3, 2022
"Marti" Sayles passed peacefully from this life on December 3, 2022, in Tulsa, OK, with loving family members at her side. She was born on October 20, 1947, in Hatalov, Czechoslovakia and came to the United States aboard the RMS Queen Elizabeth at the age of two. She made her home in Connecticut, New Mexico and most recently, Oklahoma. While in CT, she worked as a Recruiter for Kelly Services and McIntyre Associates where many of her clients became lifelong friends. Marti was an amazing cook who healed many ills with her homemade chicken soup. Marti appreciated a good cup of tea and had an affinity for collecting teapots. She enjoyed planning, hosting and attending tea parties. She cherished time with family and friends, cooking, reading, shopping and savoring delicious food. Her favorite past-time was talking about, and spending time with, her five grandchildren. They were truly the joys of her life, as she was theirs. She looked forward to the daily pictures and videos of her great granddaughter. She loved to laugh, had a quick wit and a great sense of humor. She had a generous, kind, heart and a beautiful, gentle nature. She would lift people's spirits by sending greeting cards and was known for her beautiful handwriting. Throughout her life, Marti made lasting friendships and wonderful memories. She was always more concerned for others than herself, donating her time and resources to anyone in need. She was generous when dolling out food, smiles, warm hugs and encouragement. Not surprisingly, she continued to do so until her final hours this side of heaven.
She was predeceased by her parents, Michael and Mary (Vagasky) Lahita; her parents-in-law, William and Rita (Aubin) Sayles; sisters-in-law, Rita (Sayles) Tate and Barbara (Sayles) Pacelli; nephew and godson Sean Michael Caselli; nephew Joseph Pacelli; and her cousin Diane Mayernick.
Marti is survived by her three beloved daughters: Michele Davidson (Peter Yanke) of NM; Cheryl Palumbo (Kenneth) of CT; Theresa Fielder (Robert Gouveia) of CT; five grandchildren: John and Robert Gouveia; Brandon, Victoria and Craig Davidson; and her great-granddaughter, Evelynn Gouveia. She also leaves two brothers: Michael Lahita (Terri) of OK, Joseph Lahita (Helen) of NY. Two sisters: MaryAnn Lahita and Betty Cimmino of CT; brothers-in-law: William (Janet) Sayles and Thomas (Christine) Sayles; sisters-in-law: Maureen (Ron) Mitchell and Linda Horvath; and numerous nieces, nephews, family and precious friends.
Autumn was Marti's favorite season. It is fitting that we remember her at this time of year. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at 11:00 am at Saint Margaret Shrine, 2523 Park Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06604
If you wish to make a donation in honor of Martha (Lahita) Sayles, she had a special place in her heart for
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (
https://www.stjude.org)
Published by Connecticut Post on Oct. 15, 2023.