Martha "Marty" (Gilbert) Hardin

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Baldwin-Lee Funeral Home in Pearl, with the Nightingale Tribute performed by the Mississippi Honor Guard to close out the evening.

Born in Cleveland, Mississippi to the late Linda Cook and Orville Gilbert, Marty graduated from Pearl High School in 1987 and later found her true calling when she earned her degree as a registered nurse from Hinds Community College in 2014. She spent the past several years working at the Mississippi State Hospital-Whitfield, where her compassion and dedication made her not only an invaluable team member but a cherished friend to her colleagues and a beacon of hope for her patients.

Affectionately known as “Smarty Marty,” she was a woman with a heart of gold, a sharp wit, and an unforgettable presence. Her favorite role in life was being a mother, a passion that extended naturally into her time serving as a leader for the local Girl Scouts troop in Raymond. Marty’s positive influence touched countless lives, leaving an impact that cannot be measured. Her hands-on maternal energy and loving encouragement shone brightest when supporting her children in all their endeavors.

In her free time, Marty found joy in simple pleasures. She loved tending to her garden, filling it with whimsical décor and providing a haven for all creatures, great and small. She was also a talented artist, often sketching and doodling throughout her life. But her happiest moments were those spent with family—whether shopping, trying new restaurants, or simply dropping by to visit after a long day of work.

Marty cherished her son Josh, who passed away in 2014. Though devastated by his loss, she demonstrated incredible resilience, devoting herself to her daughter Sara and treasuring their many trips and special outings together. Her heart grew even fuller in March 2024 with the birth of her first grandchild, Jettson. Becoming a “Nana” was Marty’s greatest joy, and she often spoke of her excitement for Jettson’s future and her plans to include him in the family’s yearly traditions. Now, as a guardian angel, she continues to watch over her loved ones, still cheering them on from above.

Marty’s giving nature extended far beyond her lifetime. As an organ donor, she continued helping others even in her passing, providing hope and healing to those in need.

In addition to her beloved son Josh, Marty has been reunited with her mother, Linda Cook, and several dear friends who preceded her in death. Cherishing her memory are her stepfather, Thomas Cook; her daughter, Sara Buckley (Frank); her sister, Susie Gilbert; her grandson, Jettson Buckley; countless other family members; and her precious canine companions, Gracie and Gabby, along with Callie the cat.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Girl Scouts of the USA, honoring Marty’s legacy of empowering young women. Donations may be made at https://www.girlscouts.org/en/support-us/donate.html.