Scores of mourners filled the Bethabara Moravian church to capacity spilling out under a tent on Saturday June 16 for the thanksgiving service for the life of Ivy Rose Martin, fondly called Mommy or Miss Ivy.

Martin, from Newfield in Manchester, was born on December 8, 1916 and died 96 years later on May 25, 2012.

With host minister Rev Kevin Marshall and four other members of the clergy, Reverends Jermaine Gibson, Canute Thompson, Phyllis Seymour and Oral Samuels officiating, the mourners heard tributes from the Bethabara Men's Chorale and the Bethabara Moravian church; daughter-In-Law Jennifer Martin; grandsons Conrad Walters and Carlton Martin; granddaughter Carol Marti; Goddaughter Petal Williams, her nieces the Daley sisters, who doubled with a song, Beyond Tomorrow; The Newport New Testament Church of God and a remembrance by family friend Carmen Ward JP.

Martin was remembered as a loving, kind and considerate individual who always had a smile and a gift for those with whom she interacted.

One of the finest dressmakers that the community produced, she shared her talent with anyone who wanted to learn.

Her impact was felt abroad as well, prompting the Mayor of Springfield, Massachusetts, Dominic J Sarno to send a tribute.

Lettice Morgan speaking for the church said, "Sister Ivy Martin can be described as one of the matriarchs of this congregation. We do not know if there is anyone here who would know how long she has been an integral part of this church, but it has been a long, long time".

Niece, Carmen, of the Daley sisters, added, "most importantly, Aunt Ivy showed her brother's children guidance and motivation, which is something we will always cherish. She was loving, firm and fairly patient during our childhood and adolescent years, as well as our adult lives. Aunt Ivy's life is a testimony to this family and community on how important unity is within a family. She valued hard work, ethics, morals, respect, love and integrity. She left a legacy which should be adhered to by everyone here today".

Family friend Ward recalled Martin as "an unassuming advisor, mentor and friend who has left this earthly scene for the eternal habitations".

"In spite of the pains from the arthritis or the failing eyesight she later endured, that endearing and permanent smile which lit up her face was a feature of a beautiful disposition which we all came to love and adore and which we should all try to emulate," Ward said of Martin.

Rev Gibson in delivering the sermon charged the congregation to emulate the strengths from the life of "Miss Ivy because in truth that is what God requires of us."

Miss Ivy was the mother of 13 children, 48 grand, 87 great-grand and 20 great-great-grandchildren. She was interred in the family plot in Newfield.