Martha Prater

Martha Prater, 86, of Hamden, passed away Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at her residence. She was born November 19, 1938, in Gallipolis, Ohio, daughter of the late Raymond and Ada Patterson Walker. Martha was married for over 62 years to the late Carles E. Prater.

She was unapologetically herself—authentic, bold, and unwavering in her spirit. Anyone who knew her knew her generosity had no limits; she would give anything to anyone who needed it, always putting others before herself. Martha was a proud member of the FOE 2279 Ladies Auxiliary. She previously attended Cornelius Chapel Church in Creola, where her faith and friendships were an important part of her life. Her hands were rarely still—she enjoyed crafting, crocheting, and tending to her garden, finding peace and purpose in the things she created and nurtured. She was, in every way, a giver rather than a taker, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, creativity, and love that will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

Martha is survived by her daughters, Carlotta Hensler, Sherry Prater Saunders and Pam Prater Ward; grandchildren, Sarah (Adam) Crotzer, Marty Saunders, Raymond Hensler, Carles Paul (Grace) Metcalf, Jessica (Daniel) Davis, Bobbie Jo (Charlie) Reed and Georgeanna (Justin Hamlin) Saunders; 13 great grandchildren; one great great grandchild on the way and sisters-in-law, Ada Slone and Lana Woodman.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her sons-in-law, Rick Hensler, Bob Saunders and Scotty Ward; brothers, Walter Walker and Tom Walker and brothers-in-law, Troy James Prater, Billy Jo Prater, Harles Junior Prater and Glendon Ray Prater.

A funeral service will be held 11 a.m., Monday, November 24, 2025, at the Calvary Assembly of God Church, 63849 Us Hwy 50, McArthur, Ohio 45651, with Rev. Jim Taylor officiating. Interment will be in Elk Cemetery, McArthur. Visitation will be held on Sunday, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Calvary Assembly of God Church where an Eagles auxiliary service will be held at 5:30 p.m. and one hour prior to the service at the church.

Arrangements are by Garrett-Cardaras Funeral Home, 201 W. High St., McArthur.

The family suggests memorial contributions may be made in memory of Martha Prater to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Please sign her online guestbook at www.cardaras.com