Martha Polhemus Moricca

Martha Polhemus Moricca passed away on Good Friday, March 29, 2024. Lovingly watched over by her Husband Larry Moricca.

Martha was born to Josiah (Joe) Polhemus, and Nancy Foreman Polhemus on July 7, 1954 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She was the youngest of their three children, the eldest Deborah Polhemus Ruiz, and the middle Steve Polhemus. The Polhemus family made their way to Fresno, California for Joe, to start his medical practice. Martha thrived in Fresno, swimming on Bullard high school’s team, and beloved by everyone she met.

Though Martha was bubbly and kind, she was a strong woman graduating from Fresno State in criminology, excelling in a career as a juvenile probation officer for Fresno County. Through managing her young charges cases, she entered a working relationship with Psychologist Dr. Larry Moricca. They conversed over the phone for over two years before meeting in person. Their relationship kindled over a meal to discuss a book; and with a quick kiss on the cheek under an almond tree, their life together began. They married on September 5, 1987. Martha and Larry’s family quickly grew, welcoming daughter Alexandria Moricca (McTavish), and daughter Olivia Moricca (Gosvener).

Martha and Larry embraced raising their daughters Alex and Olivia in the country in Clovis, California. They had an adventurous life rearing chickens, riding horses, and competing in dance competitions. Martha enjoyed the outdoors immensely; she would walk through the neighboring almond orchards daily with her close friends. When challenge called, she tackled mountains, such as Mount Rainier, and Half Dome.

After their daughters left the nest to pursue their adult lives, Larry and Martha began their own adventure traveling around America in their fifth wheel seeing all the country has to offer. The only thing that could bring more joy to their lives was the birth of their grandchildren. Martha and Larry proudly boast seven grandchildren: Cruise McTavish, Linden Gosvener, Vallen McTavish, Pearson Gosvener, Laney Gosvener, Roan McTavish, and Connolly Gosvener.

Many shall miss the wonderful woman that is Martha Moricca, but with her profound faith in God and Jesus Christ, she moves on to a beautiful place in Heaven.

If you wish to pay your respects her Recitation of Holy Rosary will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 355 E Champlain Dr, Fresno, CA 93730, followed by a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.whitehurstsullivan.com for the Moricca family.