Dolores Elaine Martin

Dolores Elaine Martin, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully at her home in Sayre, Pennsylvania, on June 2, 2025. Born on November 11, 1938, in Beacon, New York, to Viola H. (Collyer) and Earl A. Taylor, Dolores's life was a testament to the power of kind-heartedness and dedication. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Douglas Alden Martin, with whom she shared 63 years of marriage, Dolores's legacy continues through her loving family and the countless lives she touched.  

A proud graduate of Tioga Central High School's class of 1956, Dolores married the love of her life, Doug, on July 7, 1956. Her professional life was filled with roles that showcased her meticulous nature and nurturing spirit. As a secretary and bookkeeper for Doug's business, Dolores's organizational skills were unmatched. Her community spirit shone brightly through her years as a bus driver for Tioga Central and her involvement with Tioga Center Senior Citizens. Dolores's love for her community was further exemplified by her commitment to her sons' scouting adventures as a dedicated Den Mother.

Dolores's home was the heart of her family, a place where love and care overflowed. Her home was a haven of care, reflecting her enormous heart and open doors. Dolores's heart knew no bounds, opening her home to care for both the young and old in her family, embodying the essence of unconditional love.  She found immense joy in planning family gatherings for Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, ensuring each holiday was memorable. Her "Sisterella" weekends with her sisters were filled with lots of smiles and laughter. Dolores's hands crafted not only delicious treats but also the best wedding and birthday cakes, leaving a taste of her love in every slice. The holidays were made when her sisters and nieces would gather for a cookie swap and sharing memories.

Dolores is survived by her sons, Daniel (Donna), Robert (Colleen), and Michael (Angela) Martin; her cherished grandchildren, John Alden (Crystal), Ashley (Peter), Thomas, Melinda, Andrew (Shelby), Joseph, Doug, Jake (Mellissa), and Audra (Derek); and her adored fourteen great-grandchildren. She will also be fondly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and their families, whom she held dear, as well as her brother-in-law, George Beville.  She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Douglas; her parents; her stepfather; her sisters, Roberta (James) Honnick, Carol (S. James) Clark, Louise Beville; and a sister-in-law, Kathy Jane Wipfler.

Dolores's life was a reflection of the quote by Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." Her loving, kind, and generous nature was felt by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Dolores will be remembered not only for her deeds but for the warmth and love she brought into the world.

We will gather on what would have been Dolores' and Doug's 69th wedding anniversary, July 7th, a day filled with love and memories. A period of visitation will be held from 10 - 12 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. A memorial service will follow at 12 pm with her son Pastor Daniel Martin, officiating. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting her guestbook at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com Those wishing to send flowers, it was Dolores’ request that plants be sent so they will continue to brighten her family's days. If you would rather, a memorial contribution may be directed to Ransom Park, 54 Fifth Ave., Barton, NY 13734 or the Tioga Center Fire/Emergency Squad, PO Box 185, Tioga Center, New York 13845 in loving memory of Dolores E. Martin.

As we bid farewell to Dolores, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a heart generously shared. Her spirit will forever reside in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her.