Marta Louise Owens

A cherished resident of Paradise Valley, Arizona, Marta's life was a testament to her vibrant spirit and unwavering love for her family and community.

Born to Rollie and Dorothy Olson, Marta grew up on a cattle ranch in the Superstition Mountains, an experience that forged her authentic cowgirl spirit. After graduating from Superior High School, she married the love of her life, Billy Max “Bill” Owens, in May 1953. Together, they embarked on a new adventure in Los Angeles, California, where Marta pursued her passion for journalism at Woodbury College, while Bill studied advertising. Though she didn't complete her degree, her heart soon found its greatest joy in welcoming their first child, Cherida. Upon Bill's graduation, the young family returned to Phoenix, Arizona, where they were blessed with two more sons, Billy Mark “Mark” Owens and Matthew Edward Owens.

Marta's life was rich with passions. She and Bill were founding members of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, an organization that remained close to her heart throughout her adult life. An avid reader and gifted writer, Marta secretly delighted in a successful career as a contract romance novelist for Simon & Schuster in the 1980s, publishing several books under a pseudonym. Her fierce loyalty extended to her beloved Arizona Cardinals and Phoenix Suns, for whom she was a season ticket holder from their inaugural seasons. Her deep faith was evident in her dedicated membership at Saint Barnabas on the Desert Episcopal Church.

Marta's legacy lives on through her loving family. She is survived by her devoted son, Mark Owens, and his wife, Trini Owens; and her son, Matthew Owens, and his wife, Karen Owens, who lovingly cared for Marta in their home during the last nine years of her life. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Brandon Owens and his wife, Rachelle Owens, Tayler Owens, and Taryn Owens; her adored great-granddaughters, Kyree Owens and Rinoa Owens; her brothers, Stan Olson and his wife Pat, and John Olson and his significant other Laurie; and many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart. Marta was preceded in death by her beloved parents; her devoted husband, Bill Owens; her precious daughter, Cherida Owens; her brother, Rollie Olson, and his wife, Lois Olson; and her niece, Cindy Owens.

The family extends a special and heartfelt thank you to Hospice of the Valley for the compassionate and loving care provided to Marta in her final days. Her incredible caregivers and nurses offered immeasurable physical and emotional support as she peacefully made her way home to the Lord.

Funeral services to celebrate Marta's remarkable life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Green Acres Mortuary & Cemetery, located at 401 North Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85257. The memorial service will begin promptly at 11:00 am, followed by a graveside service at 12:00 pm, and a reception at the same location, where family and friends can share memories and comfort one another.

Marta will forever be remembered for her indomitable spirit, her endless creativity, and the boundless love she shared with all who were fortunate enough to know her. In lieu of flowers, donations in Marta’s name to Hospice of the Valley, Alzheimer's Association, or Saint Barnabas on the Desert Episcopal Church are suggested, honoring her generous spirit and commitment to causes close to her heart.