February 4, 1940 – February 5, 2019
at the age of 79 years

A celebration of Martha’s life will be held on Sunday February 17th at 2 pm at First United Church. There will be a gathering afterwards in the church hall.

Martha Anne Scales (Longley) nee Riley died peacefully following her 79th birthday on February 5, 2019. Martha was predeceased by her brother Doug and son Chris. She left behind her husband Bob, daughter Susan, son Gord (Mila), sister-in-law Barb, grandchildren Kendra (Nick), Terrell, Trenton, Taiysha (Calvin), and great grandson, Kaiden. Also very dear to Martha were step-children Karen (Robert), Alan (Lindsay), Paul (Melanie) and their children Caitlin (Deklan), Giordano, and Anna.
Martha was born in Winnipeg and completed nursing school at Misericordia Hospital. She left nursing to raise her three children, and share her gifts of volunteerism in Saskatoon, Calgary and North Vancouver.  Later she worked for the North Vancouver Women’s Shelter and North Shore Home Support. Martha retired from the Sunshine Coast Home Support Society as ED during which time she and Bob built and operated a B&B in Halfmoon Bay. They also facilitated hospice and organizational workshops there.
They moved to Salmon Arm where Martha chaired the board at CMHA, spearheading the first Mental Health housing facility in Salmon Arm. She chaired the board at First United during which time they completed the affirming process welcoming LGBTQ people. She also worked tirelessly using her gifts of leadership and compassion to improve the lives of Indigenous peoples, the homeless and new immigrants.
Martha enjoyed connecting to the natural world, gardening and being with her dogs. She walked gently on the earth.
Above all, Martha valued her family and friends. She was a devoted mother and partner. Her years of being a grandma were the most joyful for her. Martha had the gift of love and connection through her gentle touch, quiet moments, and generous spirit.
We would like to express great appreciation to those who supported both Martha and Bob in the last years of Martha’s illness. A very special thank you to the staff and administration at Mount Ida Mews and Dr. Kimberly Grieve, for their loving kindness and diligent care during the last chapter of Martha’s life.
Donations may be made to a charity of your choice that reflects Martha’s values and passions.
A celebration of Martha’s life will be held on Sunday February 17th at 2pm at First United Church. There will be a gathering afterwards in the church hall.