Martha Breed

May 25, 1933 – June 22, 2025 Martha Garrett Breed, 92, passed away peacefully on June 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of grace, intellect, and unwavering spirit. She was, in every way, the embodiment of "Gracious"-the name that adorned the stern of her red sailboat. Born in rural central Florida in 1933, Martha was raised by her widowed mother alongside her beloved brother, in the shadow of the Great Depression and World War II. From this upbringing grew a deep and lifelong affection for the natural world, both land and sea, and the values of resilience, humility, and wonder that would shape her life. A voracious reader and dedicated lifelong learner, Martha pursued her education with passion, earning a bachelor's degree at Florida State University and a master's degree at Kansas State. She taught at the University of Iowa and later received her Master of Arts in Liberal Studies at Georgetown University. At 90 years old she remained intellectually vibrant, joining St. John's College's "Year of Classics" program via Zoom in 2023. While at Kansas State, she met and married Jack Harris, and they moved together to the Washington, D.C. area. Though their marriage ended, their friendship endured for a lifetime. Later, she found her true home in Annapolis, quickly becoming a beloved figure in the community. In 1985, she married fellow sailor George Breed and together they built a life on Weems Creek in West Annapolis. Martha's journey took her from Fleet Street to Weems Creek, to Claude Street, to BrightView, and finally to Baywoods. With each transition, her spirit remained unflinching. Her curiosity never waned, her joy was infectious, and her friendship was a gift she gave freely and generously. She is survived by her stepdaughter, Deena Breed Larlee, and stepson-in-law, Howard Larlee; her stepson, Richard Breed; her daughter-in-law, Julie Breed; her grandchildren, Rachael and Ishmael Breed-Snyder, and Madeleine Breed; and her niece, Sheila Garrett Panzone. Martha Garrett Breed lived a life anchored in kindness, wonder, and courage. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her. A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Anne's Church in Annapolis on Saturday July 26th at 3pm. A reception will follow in St. Anne's Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SPCA of Anne Arundel County or to Saint Anne's Outreach Ministry.