Obituary of Leonarda "Lee" R. Martin

Leonarda Rose “Lee” Martin, 72, of Hightstown, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 3, 1953, in Princeton, Lee was a lifelong resident of the Hightstown area and a proud graduate of Hightstown High School in NJ.

Lee devoted her life to her children and grandchildren, who were the center of her world. She had a deep love for music and dancing, often filling her home with her favorite songs and creating moments of joy and laughter for those around her. Known for her strength, generosity, and boundless love, Lee also had the courage to use her voice to stand up for what she believed in. She carried a touch of sass that, when the moment called for it, brought both humor and honesty to those she loved. Always watchful and caring, she made it a point to check in and ensure everyone was home safe. Even as her health declined, Lee remained composed and resilient, continuing to show her family what true strength looked like. She also had a special love for animals and a warm personality that naturally brought comfort to others, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Lee is predeceased by her parents, Vito and Marie Trapani, and her sister, Martha Trapani.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Frank Martin, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, music, and dancing — and now waiting so they may dance together again; her children, Jason Nugent (Deilani) and Cara Herrick; her cherished grandchildren, Keith J Herrick, Lewis Herrick, and Maddie Hillier Nugent; her uncle, Angelo (Brenda) Trapani; her sisters, Maria Patton of Trenton, Angela Reen (Michael) of Fort Worth, and Sandra Negrete (Ulises) of Bordentown; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews; and her cherished dog, Baxter.

Lee will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, May 11, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, 251 Franklin Street, Hightstown, NJ, entrusting Lee to God’s eternal care, with interment at Cedar Hill Cemetery, followed by a celebration of Lee’s life where family and friends are invited to gather and share memories at the family home in East Windsor.

Of course, flowers are always welcome, or you may donate to the animal shelter that rescued her dog Baxter, Humane Society of South Mississippi by visiting https://www.hssm.org/donate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Simplicity Funeral and Cremation Services at Glackin Chapel, 136 Morrison Ave., Hightstown, NJ.