Martha Irene Gross

Martha Irene Gross, known affectionately as Marti, was born on November 8, 1941, in Atlantic County and passed away peacefully at her home in Galloway on March 7, 2026, at the age of 84. A devoted mother and grandmother, she was a supportive twin sister and a nurturing daughter to the late Nellie Lashley of Port Republic. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Stephen, on January 28, 2024.

Marti graduated from Pleasantville High School and earned her teaching degree in mathematics from Trenton State College. She taught math at her alma mater, Pleasantville High School, before marrying at age 24 and becoming a full-time mother to her three daughters. She was deeply involved in her children’s lives, participating in school events, Christmas craft shows, and the PTA, while serving as assistant coach for GTAA softball and supporting all of their sports and activities.

She had a lifelong passion for animals, especially dogs and horses, and enjoyed barrel racing in her younger years. She shared her love of horses with her children and found great joy in flower gardening, reading best-selling novels, stitching, and playing online word games with friends around the world. Her constant companion was her beloved cocker spaniel, Stoney.

Marti is survived by her three daughters, Debbie Gross, Nancy Arato (and her husband, John), and Stephanie Gross; her three grandchildren, Stephen Schau, John Arato, and Talia Arato; and her twin sister, Marion Marcheski.