Anne “Anita” Martin

October 27, 1937 - September 14, 2022

10/27/1937 - 09/14/2022

Anne “Anita” Martin (nee Donohue) died peacefully at home, surrounded by her family on September 14, 2022. Anita was born in 1937 in the village of Knockcroghery in County Roscommon, Ireland. She was the youngest of 9 children and is preceded in death by her parents and 8 siblings, including her two beloved brothers who also lived in the United States, Malachy and John. Anita is survived by her husband of 53 years, Edward “Eamonn” Martin, her daughter Annie Martin of New York City, and her daughter Julie Martin Ambrosio and husband Chris Ambrosio of Virginia Beach, along with her most treasured grandchildren Alex and Grace.

 

Known to her family as “Nana,” she loved tropical vacations, weekend barbecues, and her dog Max. Anita had an adventurous spirit and a complete disregard for age. Her family fondly remembers her many adventures which included zip lining on family trips and skydiving to celebrate her 73rd birthday. Anita faced her advanced cancer diagnosis with grit and courage, choosing hospice care at home so she could spend quality time with friends and family. She never lost her sense of humor or spirited outlook on life.

 

Anita was an avid exerciser, often at the gym 6-7 days a week for more than 40 years. She was a member of One Life Fitness on Virginia Beach Boulevard and often referred to her morning gym friends as her second family. These friendships sustained Anita and meant the world to her. Anita’s family wishes to thank the One Life Fitness family for all their love and attention during her illness. Additionally, the family thanks Angela and Tonya from Medi Hospice for their excellent care and emotional support, and Father Nigel Mumford of Galilee Episcopal Church for his kindness and spiritual guidance. In accordance with Anita’s wishes, there will be no formal service. We invite you to celebrate Anita in a way that honors her zest for life – ride a roller coaster, have a cocktail, or enjoy a workout. In lieu of flowers, the family requests gifts in Anita’s memory to provide emotional support to local cancer patients through Cancer Care Foundation of Tidewater at 6251 E. Virginia Beach Blvd, Suite 320, Norfolk, VA 23502.

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Anne-Marie
1 year ago

What a generous soul! She knew I had 8 children and many grandchildren, so whenever she “found stuff” be it in her closet, as a donation from a friend, or, in one case, beside the road, she immediately called me to come pick it up. I’m happy to say I was her gym bud for 8 years. We shared a prayer of hope when I last visited her. She’s no longer in pain. Blessings to her family and friends

Basia Stansbury
1 year ago

It was a pleasure to meet & become friends with Anita. She was incredibly insightful & genuinely kind. Also, I never knew what she was going to say next & often times I’d was sassy & hilarious! She is missed but I am thankful for the time I had with her. I will always be reminded when I walk past ‘her’ treadmill that life is good and to be lived.

Lilly
1 year ago

What a joyful and adventurous spirit who has rejoined her Maker. She will always be a part of your lives in the memories and the stories you share. Love and hugs to all of you.

Regina
1 year ago

The lights are dimmer in the hearts of those she befriended over the years. I was blessed to meet her many years ago…on a mat at the old OL. We moaned and groaned doing our various moves in yoga, Pilates and weight lifting classes. Anita made time to befriend many associates and will be long remembered. I am thankful to have shared a close relationship with her. Rest in peace, faithful friend!

The Battaglia family
1 year ago

Our love to Julie, Chris, Alex and Gracie and all of those who are missing Anita. What a beautiful life and family she created. She lives on in all of you.