Martha Thum
OBITUARY
Martha Gwen Redding Thum, beloved matriarch, passed away unexpectedly August 8, 2026, at age 92 surrounded by loved ones.
She was predeceased by her parents Ray and Mildred Redding, her loving husband of 66 years, Lawrence Charles Thum, and her eldest son, David Lawrence Thum. She is survived by her sister, Eileen Tellam, brother Bob Redding (Sandie), children Margaret Miller (Dwayne), Carolyn Brownsberger (Will), and John Thum (Wendy), grandchildren Katie Miller (Mike), Cameron Miller (Robyn), Kelsey Miller, Rae Brownsberger (Michael), Carly Brownsberger, and Louise Brownsberger, and great-grandchildren Madison, Max, David, Marlon, and Mabel.
Martha and Larry together built a family rooted in love, laughter, and enduring family traditions. Martha was the true anchor of the family, holding every story, milestone, and memory close to her heart. She leaves behind a beautiful legacy through her descendants.
Martha was born in San Diego and raised in Julian, California, where she was proudly crowned Julian Apple Day Queen. She has been a La Jolla resident for the last 55 years.
She always said, “I can’t remember when I didn’t want to be a nurse.” She went on to pursue her passion of caring for others and built her career as a dedicated nurse. She was a proud alumna of University of Redlands and Stanford Nursing School. Throughout her career she worked in hospital, school, and public health nursing. She worked as a nurse until age 80, always leading with kindness and caring.
To her family and friends Martha carried the essence or her roots, forever smelling like sweet lily of the valley, the beach, and crisp mountain air. She loved her family and friends, and her positivity and inner light enveloped all who came into her life with love and hope. Her gentle touch, healing presence, and boundless love will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am, October 17, 2026, La Jolla United Methodist Church, 6063 La Jolla Blvd., La Jolla CA.
In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to Stanford University or the White Sands Team Member Appreciation Fund.