Petersburg – A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 7, at 11:30 a.m. at Clemente Funeral Home in New Middletown for Martha E. Kennedy, 97, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Hospital Boardman.

Martha was born on September 18, 1928, in Petersburg, a daughter of Arthur R. and Florence M. (Barth) Koch. She lived in the area her entire life and was loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. On June 10, 1948, she married John "Jack" Kennedy, with whom she built a beautiful life. They were lifelong members of St. John's Lutheran Church in Petersburg, where Martha faithfully served the church community for decades. Martha was also blessed to have made great friends later in life at The Meadows at Covington, and was very grateful for the kind and caring staff.

Martha leaves behind two sons, John (Nancy) Kennedy of New Middletown and David (Paula) Kennedy of Poland; and a daughter, Susan (David) Kasmer of John's Creek, Georgia. Her eight grandchildren—Jodi Liscio; Erin (Brent) Ryan; Parker Kasmer; Kirkland Kasmer; Brandon Kennedy; Allyson (William) Toohey; Blaine Kasmer; and Barkley (Brett) Hessler—will forever cherish memories of her famous (and plentiful) Christmas cookies, her quick wit, her warm hugs, sleepovers, Wednesday night family dinners, and treasured Thanksgiving traditions. Her eight great-grandchildren—Madison Liscio; Eloise, Beatrice, and Florence Ryan; Cora Toohey; Rowan Kennedy; and Palmer and Porter Hessler—will always think of her when they hear the song "I Love You, a Bushel and a Peck," a sweet reminder of her affection.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Jack, who died on October 21, 2015; her three brothers, Roy, Raymond, and Paul Koch; her sister, Ruth Yauman; her grandson, John J. Kennedy; and her granddaughter, Denver Krista Kennedy.

Martha's deep and unwavering faith, her selfless and generous spirit, and her unconditional love for her family will remain her enduring legacy.

Friends may call on Saturday, March 7, prior to the service from 10:00 am to 11:30 am at the Clemente Funeral Home at 10170 Main Street in New Middletown, 44442.

This obituary may be viewed and condolences sent at www.ClementeFuneral Homes.co