Martha Helen Fields

Martha's Obituary

Martha Helen Fields, beloved mother, grandmother, educator, and friend, passed away quietly in St. Joseph, Michigan, surrounded by her cherished giraffe collection and just down the street from the shores of Lake Michigan, which was her favorite place to spend every summer. She was 81 years old.

Born on October 16, 1944, in LaPorte, Indiana, Martha grew up proudly cheering for her hometown Slicers before pursuing her professional calling in education. A devoted Hoosier, she earned her degree from Indiana University and carried that pride throughout her life.

Martha dedicated her career to serving students and families in the Ferguson–Florissant and Hazelwood School Districts, where she worked as both an English teacher and a guidance counselor. Her passion for education, her fierce commitment to her students, and her ability to connect with young people left a lasting impact on countless lives. She believed in living boldly and teaching with heart, a philosophy she carried throughout her entire career. Martha was known for going deep on her hobbies, which included gardening, reading, lake life, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Though she spent most of her adult life in St. Louis, Missouri, Martha found great joy in retiring to St. Joseph, Michigan, where she lived near her daughter Meghan and her family. There, she found peace in the rhythms of lake life, the comfort of family, and the simple beauty of daily walks, summer waves, and her ever-growing giraffe collection.

Martha was the daughter of the late Edward and Harriett Sweitzer, and the loving sister of Jon Sweitzer (Arizona) and Sally Hilgendorf (Illinois). She is survived by her daughter, Meghan Wooldridge (Fields) of St. Joseph, MI, and her son, Nathan Fields and daughter in law Amy Fields of St. Louis, MO. She leaves behind five grandchildren who brought her endless pride and joy: Augustus Wooldridge, Lincoln Wooldridge, Liam Fields, Allie Fields, and Eliza Fields. Her former partner, Wayne Fields (Michigan), remained a big part of her life as well.

Martha lived her life with intensity, passion, and without apology. Her family and all who loved her will carry her spirited energy forward in stories, memories, and the deep love for family that she leaves behind.