Martha Lee Humphrey

Martha Lee was born to Georgia Francis Weber Cowen and Nathan “Link” Cowen on February 22, 1916 in Shawnee, Oklahoma. She was one of 7 siblings. She graduated from Shawnee High School and went on to business school in Oklahoma City.

During WWII, Martha Lee married Bill Newhouse. Bill was a “Seabee” and the Navy moved them to Providence, RI. Martha Lee went to work in the office of the Kiser– Frasier Ship Yard. Martha Lee returned to Shawnee after the war. During her professional career she was co-owner and manager of Bison Lumber, co-owner of Cowen Construction, owner operator of Martha Lee’s Back Door Pantry and the Broadway Liquor Store. Martha Lee married Jack Humphrey on February 22, 1916. Jack proposed marriage by asking Martha Lee what she would like for her birthday. Martha Lee responded with, “How about a honeymoon!” They were married and went to the races in Hot Springs, AR. He was a great companion and they loved to travel and entertain. Martha Lee and Jack owned many races horses. “Cruzen Dude” was their favorite horse and won many races.

Martha Lee enjoyed dogs, gin rummy, cooking, pool parties, bourbon and water, and most of all being surrounded by her loving friends and family.

Martha Lee is preceded in death by her husband Jack Humphrey in 1986, as well as brothers and sisters Link Cowen, Earnest Allen Cowen, Jacquelyn Cowen Crawley, Katherine Cowen Garnett, Marie Cowen; nephew, Link Carter Cowen and life-long best friend, Maurine Rice.

Martha Lee is survived by her brother, Steve Cowen; nephews, Link, John, Buck, Clint and Allen Cowen; niece, Reve Cowen Hanks and many other greatly loved nieces and nephews.

Martha Lee and family would like to thank Lois, Rhonda, Cynthia, Angie and Janice for their thoughtful care these last years. A special thanks to April Cowen Hill for all of her loving care in and out of the hospital.

Services will be graveside at resthaven, Thursday, July 26th at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers or gifts please make a contribution to the Breast Cancer Foundation or the charity of your choice.