Martha Estelle Beckley

BECKLEY, Martha Estelle Of Malden, MA, at the age of 64, passed away on April 4, 2011 after a ten month battle with cancer. She previously lived in Cambridge, MA, New York City, and Middletown, New York. She was the daughter of the late Stewart and Elizabeth Houghton Beckley of Cooperstown, New York. Martha Beckley was a gifted occupational therapist, working with physically and mentally disabled people in their homes. Martha received her Bachelor of Art Degree in Occupational Therapy at New York University in February, 1973, and her Master of Science from Boston University in 1980. She completed post-graduate studies at Boston University in 1993. Martha was a member of the National Rehabilitation Association and a Licensed Rehabilitation Counselor in Massachusetts. Martha loved to garden more than anything. She loved the ocean. She loved creating and owning handicrafts, much of which she obtained while travelling. Martha enjoyed talking to people, and she made an impression on everyone she met. She was always willing to help her friends, family, and neighbors. She had a great sense of humor and a contagious laugh. She took joy in something she saw or experienced every day. She cared deeply about community, justice, peace, the environment, and animal welfare. Her sister, Jane, was by her side in her Malden home at the time of her death, as was her close friend Martha Goldstein, also of Malden. She leaves behind many close relatives and friends. There will be no funeral or calling hours. Friends will be contacted in the future about memorial plans. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cape Ann Animal Aid, 260 Main St, Gloucester, MA. 01930.