Martha was born in Atlanta, MO to Jasper and Minnie (Smith) Richardson. She had one brother, David, and one sister, Charlotte. Both preceded her in death. Martha graduated from Atlanta High School and Chillicothe Business School. On April 30, 1950, she married William Boyd Kaighen. They were married 52 years. He preceded her in death in 2002. Martha worked for Southwestern Bell for 17 years, retiring in 1988. She was a member of Antioch Bible Baptist Church in Gladstone, MO.
Martha leaves behind six children, Richard Kaighen (Michelle), Kansas City; Dan Kaighen (Carrie), Norwalk, CT; Chuck Kaighen (Elaine), Harrisonville; Jane Werle, Springfield; Larry Kaighen (Penny), Rancho Cordova, CA; and Steve Kaighen (Tammy), Kansas City, KS. She also has 20 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.
Growing up, Martha enjoyed sports and played the clarinet in her high school band. She loved music and was a gifted pianist who continued to play until the end of her life. Martha enjoyed flowers and nature and had quite the green thumb. She was a humble caretaker and received much joy from serving others and making them feel special. Martha Catherine Kaighen, a beautiful, godly woman who will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.
