Martha Stevenson Telles

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Petra “Martha” Stevenson Telles, who passed away on February 2, 2025 at the age of 91.

Born on August 5, 1933 in El Paso, Texas, she grew up in Benson, Arizona and later moved to Needles, California where she lived for 66 years. She was a dedicated and loving wife to her late husband Richard Telles and a devoted mother to her children: Charles (Donna), Gerald (Elenna), Teresa (Tim), Marty (Cynthia), Anna (Michael) and bonus children Wayne (Maria) and Nancy (Joseph).

Martha lived a fulfilling life and was a woman of many talents. She learned how to cook when she was quite young and her homemade dishes were always the highlight of family gatherings. She loved attending mass, singing in the choir, fundraising, praying with friends and she was the Principal for the children’s religious program for over twenty years. In her later years she worked with her husband and friends at Martha’s Pantry feeding those in need. She loved attending programs that her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were involved in.

Martha was a kind and generous soul, always putting others’ needs before her own. Her love and compassion extended to all those who knew her, and she will be remembered for her infectious smile, storytelling and her ability to see the good in everyone.

She is survived by her children, fourteen grandchildren and thirty-two great grandchildren, who will miss her dearly.

On March 21, 2025 a rosary will be held at 9:30, a mass at 10:00 at St. Ann’s Catholic Church and immediately following a Celebration of Life at the Elks Lodge in Needles, California.

On March 23, 2025 a graveside service will be held at the High Street Cemetery at 10:00 in Benson, Arizona where she will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Richard Telles. Following the ceremony there will be a reception at the Barney-Figueroa VFW Hall in Benson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Needles, California in memory of Martha Telles.

Rest in peace, dear mother. You will forever be in our hearts and memories forever.