Martha Ann Leigh

Martha Anne Whiteside Leigh was born on May 22, 1943, in Washington, D.C. She spent her early years navigating the vibrant streets of her hometown before eventually settling in Mount Rainier, Maryland a place that would become the true home for her and her family.

Martha’s life was guided by one unwavering principle: family came first. Whether she was working at Mr. Car Wash in D.C., at a local children’s store, or later volunteering at food banks alongside her daughter Janet, every role she took on was chosen with intention. She never chased recognition or advancement. Instead, she placed herself where she could best support and protect the people she loved.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Martha raised all three of her children—Janet, Donna, and Robert—with steadfast commitment and care. She also lovingly regarded Jimmy as a son during his early childhood. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family. Her home became a sanctuary for neighborhood children of all backgrounds. The door was always open, and the house was rarely quiet. Laughter, conversation, and togetherness filled her space—simply because she was there.

Family remained central throughout her life, including her bond with her brother Walter Whiteside, affectionately known to many as Uncle Duke, and her sister Nancy. That loyalty and steadiness shaped how Martha showed up for the people around her, whether they were relatives, neighbors, or friends who quickly became family.

Martha was straightforward, no-nonsense, and refreshingly honest. She spoke her mind and had an uncanny ability to read people. If she liked you, she showed up for you fully and loyally. If she didn’t, she would tell you plainly to “get out my face”—and there was no confusion about where you stood. With Martha, there was no pretense—only authenticity.

In her later years, Martha found peace through her church involvement and continued her commitment to service by volunteering at food banks. From her early days in Washington, D.C., to her final years in Mount Rainier, her life reflected quiet devotion—to family, to community, and to the simple act of keeping your door open.

Martha Anne Whiteside Leigh passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 82. She now rests in peace, reunited in spirit with her beloved daughter Janet, while her love continues on through her children Donna and Robert, her brother Walter “Uncle Duke” Whiteside, her sister Nancy, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, adopted family members, friends, and loved ones who will always carry her memory forward.

Service Information

Viewing: February 12, 2026 Funeral & Memorial Service: Gasch’s Funeral Home, Maryland