Sturbridge: Mary Martha (Corrigan) Moore, 72, of Blueberry Lane, passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, Sept. 19th, after a long illness. She leaves her two children, Peter Moore and his wife Jessica Moore-Wilson of Tyngsboro, and Eliza Moore and her fiancé David Buckner of Warren, RI; her former husband, John Moore and his partner Michael Derry of Southbridge; her brother, James Corrigan and his wife Sandra of Tyngsboro; her granddaughter, River Juliette Moore; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, siblings-in-law, and friends. Martha was predeceased by her loyal dog, Harry. She was born in Lynn, the daughter of Paul W. and Mary P. (Quinn) Corrigan. She spent several years living in Oregon with John in the 1970s, before the four New England seasons lured them back to Massachusetts.

Martha attended Catholic schools, eventually leaving college early to seek a future beyond the limited career options presented to young women of her time. She was involved in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s, protesting peacefully for non-violence and tolerance. She soon took a job at Weston Nurseries, which was hard physical work, but incredibly fulfilling. This experience convinced her to pursue a career working outdoors and with her hands. This is also where Martha's love for horticulture bloomed, where she made deep friendships, and where she met the future father of her children. Though they did not stay married, John remained a dedicated co-parent and close lifelong friend.

For many years, Martha owned her own business, Moore Garden and Landscape, creating countless gardens and planting trees; her small two-to-three person crews were often all women. Her knowledge of horticulture and local flora was unmatched, and she instilled a great love of nature in those around her. She especially loved heritage roses, the Shipwreck Rose 'Celsiana' being one of her favorites, and she enjoyed sharing the history of the flower with visitors to her garden. When the garden season ended each winter, she led gingerbread workshops and made wreaths and roving out of locally and sustainably gathered greenery. In her later years, Martha worked for the Bridge of Central Mass.

A gifted fiber and textile artist, Martha made her own wedding gown, including the lacework. She was a prolific knitter, always working with natural fibers, and often starting with raw wool to hand wash, card, spin, and dye, before creating exquisite sweaters, hats, shawls, and slippers. These creations and Martha's whimsical, meticulously hand-stitched quilts will warm her loved ones for generations. Many of you reading this likely have one of these pieces in your own home. Martha was a charter member of the Quinebaug Valley Council for the Arts (now the Ruth Wells Center for the Arts), and taught classes there and at the Hitchcock Free Academy in Brimfield. She was also a member of the Southbridge Garden Club.

Compassion was Martha's greatest guide and she frequently opened her home to family (blood-related and otherwise) in need of a safe haven. She offered her space as a refuge for many in challenging times, and taught the importance of maintaining peace and stability in one's home and life. She remained spiritual, inspired by the tenets of loving-kindness taught by the Dalai Lama, making the connection among many world religions of the Golden Rule and loving your neighbor.

Martha chose to donate her body to the Harvard Medical School Anatomical Gift Program. According to Martha's wishes, there are no calling hours. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation of money or time to an organization that makes the world a nicer place, supports the environment, the arts, or people in need. Plant a tree. Plant a garden - it's good for the soul, the community, and the earth. Share your talents with others. Follow your heart and intuition; take the road less traveled. Appreciate the simple beauty of nature. Listen to and laugh with your loved ones; share your appreciation for the special things they bring to your life. Make a plan for your own end of life and be clear about your wishes - Martha's children are forever grateful for the way she prepared them for this inevitability. Finally, keep Martha in your hearts, and always choose kindness.