Martha Jean Day

Martha J. Day (Madarasz), age 74, of Grosse Pointe Farms, MI passed away January 17, 2026, surrounded by her children. Martha was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother.

Martha was born in Grosse Pointe on January 24, 1951, to Michael and Barbara Madaraz. She and her sister Marjorie grew up in Grosse Pointe Farms spending summers at the Pier Park and enjoying family gatherings with their cousins. After graduating from Grosse Pointe High School, where she sang in the Tower Belles choir, she attended Eastern Michigan University. She was also an active and lifelong member at Grosse Pointe Memorial Church.

Martha went on to have a successful career in radio advertising sales. There, she met the love of her life, Deano Day. Martha became stepmother to Deano's four children, and together with Deano, had three more children. Being a mother brought great joy to Martha's life. She often said it was her favorite job in the world. As Martha spent many years moving about the country with Deano and their three children-from Michigan to California, Chicago and back again-their lives were never short on variety or adventure, and always full of love. The household typically teemed with pets, friends, and good food. Martha loved to cook. They eventually found their way back to Grosse Pointe to be near Martha's aging parents. There, Martha spent years working as the administrative assistant to the Wayne County Commissioner. She loved getting calls from constituents and helping the community in any way that she could. She put her children through college and supported her family selflessly. As an empty nester, she continued in the role of caregiver; for Deano prior to his passing in 2009 and then for her mother.

Martha adored being a grandmother. She traveled to Los Angeles, Chicago, Columbus and Cape Cod to be there for births, spend holidays, and help with life's milestones. She loved to read to her grandchildren, and they loved their time together with her.

Martha was an artist, an avid reader, a lover of animals, and a fan of mysteries. Above all, she delivered her love unconditionally.

She was predeceased by her parents Michael and Barbara, her sister Marjorie, and her husband Deano.

She will be greatly missed by her friends and family, which include her children: Michael & Lauren Day of Columbus, OH; Katy Day & Donald MacKenzie of Orleans, MA; and Rachel & Chris Wilson of Chicago, IL; her grandchildren: Maggie, Connor, Eloise, Benny, Alistair, & Flora; her stepchildren and their families: Michelle & Chip Exner, Mitch Moen, Dean & Lisa Moen, and Darcy Cypert.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 21st at 11am at Grosse Pointe Memorial Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.