Martha O'Leary

Madison - Martha (Marti) Ann Thomas O'Leary age 77 passed away peacefully on Sunday October 28, 2018 surrounded by her children at Agrace Hospice Center after a long battle with Cancer.

She was born March 8, 1941 in Cincinnati Ohio to Merle and Mariann (Moody) Thomas. Marti graduated from Madison West High School in 1959. On August 10, 1963 Marti was united in marriage to Michael O'Leary at St Bernard's Catholic Church in Middleton. She went on to graduate from the University of Wisconsin - Madison with a BS in Nursing. Her 17-year nursing career included time as an OR, ER & Psych nurse. Marti continued to care for others when she changed careers in 1980. Marti worked as a realtor in the Madison area for over 40 years helping thousands of families make Madison their home.

Marti was a woman with a huge heart and a willingness to help anyone in need. She had an open door to all friends and family. She was a trusted confidant to many. She could be counted on to always be truthful and supportive. "Let me check with Marti." was a familiar phrase spoken by family and friends.

Marti was happiest surrounded by her family and numerous friends. Those who knew Marti knew how she loved a party! She always hosted the best parties with the intent of making everyone feel relaxed, welcome and part of her family. Anyone who crossed Marti's path also knew how much she loved her three children and seven grandchildren. "Not a dud in the bunch" was her mantra handed down from her mother regarding her kids and grandbabies.

She served as the matriarch for both the O'Leary and Thomas families opening her heart to her in-laws and her 18 nieces & nephews. Marti was a familiar face at St Maria Goretti. Having her children & her grandchildren attend school there and being involved in the parish for over 45 years.

Marti is survived by her three children Sean (Aimee) O'Leary, Kathleen (Mark) Schauder, Sarah (Kyle) Lynch; her 7 grandchildren Owen, Henry, Gavin, Wyatt, Tess, Nolan and Tucker; and her 2 brothers David Thomas and Bob (Sheila) Thomas. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband of 54 years Michael (Dec 2017). Everyone who came to know Marti also came to know her "Mikey", she will now be reunited with her one true love & best friend.

A visitation will be held from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday Nov 4, 2018 at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Road Madison. A mass of catholic burial will be Monday, November 5 at St Maria Goretti Catholic Church, 5313 Flad Ave - Madison. Msgr Mike Burke and Rev. Bob Evenson will be officiating. A visitation will be held at 10am until the time of the mass at church.

A luncheon will be held at the church following the mass. Memorials in Marti's name may be made to St Maria Goretti 5313 Flad Ave Madison WI 53711 or National Multiple Sclerosis Society 1120 James Drive Suite A Hartland, WI 53029

Marti would be the first to say that she knew she lived a very blessed and full life that was filled with faith, family, laughter, joy, sorrow and LOVE - and she was grateful for it every day!

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
3610 Speedway Road
Madison, WI
53705