Marthe A. White

Marthe was born on 12/18/53 and is the first of 7 children (5 girls first, then 2 boys) born to Lucette and Marc Rossi on the beautiful French Island of New Caledonia. Marthe attended Catholic schools and led the pack of siblings in all chores, outings and weekend adventures. Camping and fishing happened close to their home all surrounded by glorious flowers. Marthe’s later career in the flower industry surely started with the plumeria, ginger, hibiscus and tea leaves all within her reach. After high school, she worked for the City of Noume’a in the government offices and regularly met with visiting dignitaries and other officials.

Marthe met her husband, Robert O White when he sailed into port. Their courtship was chaperoned by her 6 siblings and she eventually moved to America in 1974 and they were married. Becoming an American citizen was one of her greatest achievements and during the last week of her life, she said that she was particularly sad that she would not be able to VOTE during this next election!

Marthe’s children were her greatest joy and Tiare, Bobby and Matt all shared her love of things tropical and the history of her native family. Even today, her Grandchildren are learning to speak French! The Grandchildren: Sydney, Landon, Nolan, Avery, Magnus and Amelia really lit up Marthe’s world on difficult days. She would talk about high school, volleyball, pre-school and the 2 newest crew members with such JOY!

St. Joachim’s provided a sanctuary for Marthe through fellowship, Mass and her work with flowers on the altar. A trip to Lourdes which she shared with Tiare was something she cherished. Marthe said all of her prayers in French!

Marthe’s love of the holidays and decorating was legend. She spent hours getting the porch, mantle and family surfboard “just right” to the delight of all the kids and neighbors. Marthe was the ONLY cook in our family! Rice salads, Beef Wellington, Bûche De Noël. She took requests and fed anywhere from 10-20 people regularly. She even made separate plates with your name on it so your sibling STAYED AWAY!!!

Marthe fought her battle with cancer for many years to be with each of you one day longer. The family thanks you for being such an important part of her life story. You made a difference in her life and her family hopes every time you see someone with a flower in their hair, you think of Marthe.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Sanctuary Notre-Dame of Lourdes. Marthe was able to visit Lourdes with her daughter Tiare, in support of her physical and spiritual healing.

https://www.lourdes-france.org/en/faire-un-don/