Martha M. Ward

Martha Mary Archambault Ward, 68, of Lisbon, Connecticut, passed away unexpectedly on March 13, 2026, at Backus Hospital. She was born on April 28, 1957, in Norwich, Connecticut, at Backus Hospital, to the late Anne Callahan Archambault and Francis Xavier Archambault Sr.

Martha grew up in Norwich and graduated from Norwich Free Academy in 1975, where she was actively involved in the DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) Program. During her high school years she worked at Vernon Drug Store in the Norwichtown Mall, demonstrating early on the strong work ethic that would define her life.

Following graduation, Martha proudly followed in the footsteps of her father and brother by pursuing a career at Electric Boat. She was hired as an administrative assistant at the Electric Boat Apprentice School and often spoke fondly of the opportunity to cross paths with her father and brother during their workdays. Martha remained dedicated to Electric Boat for more than 40 years before retiring, forming many lasting friendships along the way.

In her middle years, Martha discovered a passion for riding her Harley-Davidson and embraced the camaraderie of the motorcycle community, participating in several affiliated riding groups. She was truly a "pioneer woman" and a jack of all trades-independent, resourceful, and always willing to lend a helping hand.

Martha also had a deep love for animals, especially the feral cats she cared for over many years. Later in life, she and her longtime companion, Jack, found simple joy in following the live bald eagle nest cameras online, spending many hours watching and learning about the birds together.

Above all else, Martha treasured her family and friends. Her loyalty to those she loved was unwavering. She devoted herself to caring for her parents in their later years, especially her mother following a stroke, showing remarkable compassion and dedication. Martha was always ready to help a friend, neighbor, or family member in need, and her kindness touched many lives.

Martha is survived by her beloved companion, John "Jack" Vaclavik of Lisbon, Connecticut; her siblings, Francis Xavier Archambault Jr. (Barbara A. Pivarnik) of Hartford, Connecticut, and Patricia Archambault Demars (Robert Demars) of Norwich, Connecticut; as well as her sister-in-law, Maria Archambault Lamay of Pawcatuck, Connecticut.

She is also survived by her cherished nieces and nephews: Christian Archambault (Stephanie Bormann) of San Diego, California; Erica Archambault McCabe (Matthew McCabe) of Larkspur, California; Maura Anne Archambault Farrell (Scott Farrell) of Bethesda, Maryland; Michael Archambault (Megan Clarke) of West Hartford, Connecticut; Kathy Demars Hayes (Robert Hayes) of Bowie, Maryland; Elizabeth Demars Wilson of Norwich, Connecticut; and Abby Demars of Norwich, Connecticut.

She also leaves many beloved great-nieces and great-nephews: Luke and Colin Archambault; Mason, Anne Callahan, and Alex McCabe; Caroline and Juliet Farrell; Lucy, Catherine, and Grace Archambault; Stephanie, Zachary, Rebekah, Dominic, and Gabrielle Hayes; and Courtney, Kyle, Lindsey, and Kelsey Wilson, as well as 21 great-great nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Anne Callahan Archambault and Francis Xavier Archambault Sr., her brother Raymond Archambault, her niece Mary Demars, and her nephew Anthony Nigro.

Martha's loss will be deeply felt by the many people whose lives she touched. Her strength, independence, loyalty, and generous spirit will be remembered for years to come.

Friends and family are invited to visit on Thursday, March 19, at the Woyasz & Son Funeral Home, 141 Central Avenue, Norwich, from 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 20, at 10:00 AM at Saint Patrick Cathedral, 211 Broadway, Norwich, with a repast immediately following in the church hall. Burial will be on Martha's birthday, April 28, at Pachaug Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Martha's memory to Ru's Rescue Fund at Salem Valley Veterinary Clinic, a nonprofit animal rescue and foster organization, or to the Saint Patrick Cathedral Charity Fund, c/o Monsignor Anthony Rosaforte.

May she be carried gently on eagle's wings and held in eternal peace.