Martha Ann Bickford Tucker, age 79, of Richmond, Indiana, was welcomed home by Jesus on February 13, 2024. Having made Arbor Trace her home of the last seven years, Martha left this earth while under the care of Reid Hospital Hospice.
Martha, one of twins, was born on December 28, 1944, in Anderson, IN, to the late George T. and Edith V. (Austin) Bickford, and enjoyed a household of love, including 5 siblings- four sisters and one brother.
Martha was known for her joy and free spirit all her life. Graduating from Desoto High school (Desoto, Indiana), she continued her education at Ball State university where Martha earned her elementary education degree and taught forty years of students that God placed before her— most of those years in Richmond Community Schools at Vaile Elementary. Many a person remembers Martha standing before first graders with an enthusiasm and love for them that they never have forgotten.
Martha, member of First Baptist Church of Richmond, loved serving The Lord there in many capacities: Sunday School Teacher, Mary Martha Circle, and was involved in many more ministries throughout the years. Martha was active in Bible Study, and Scripture was dear to her heart. Martha extended her love for the Lord to everyone in her life. Martha's relationship with Christ was and is Forever the mainstay of her life.
Martha said, "Focusing on the Word is Life." Martha was most thankful for Psalm 92. Two verses that she particularly liked that describe her well are:
"You thrill me, Lord, with all you have done for me." Psalm 92:4
"Even in old age, they will still produce fruit." Psalm 92: 14
Martha is survived by one brother, George Bickford, Chicago, IL; two sisters, Virginia Bickford Manning, of Omaha, NE and Linda (Fred) Bickford Medsker, Phoenix, AZ.
Martha was preceded in death by her parents, and two sisters, her twin, Mary Bickford, and Barbara Bickford Drumm.
Visitation and a celebration of Martha's life will be held on February 22, 2024, at First Baptist Church of Richmond, 1601 South A Street, Richmond, IN, 47274, with Pastor Branden Pahl and Reverand Phil Hodgkin, officiating. The visitation will be at 9:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 10:00 a.m.
Gravesite Rites will follow on the same day at 1:00 p.m. at Union Cemetery, which is 2 blocks past De Soto United Methodist Church, 6309 North Co Rd. 500 E Muncie, Indiana (Delaware County)
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Baptist Church of Richmond in care of Riggle Walterman Mortuary Inc, 32 South 11th Street, Richmond, IN 47374, who will also be in charge of flower arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.rigglewaltermann.com