Martha Helen Nead

January 11, 1930 – July 20, 2025

Long Beach, California

Martha Helen Wagner Nead, a lifelong resident of Long Beach, California, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2025, at the age of 95.

Born on January 11, 1930 to Gus Otto Wagner and Mary Irene Dillman Wagner, Martha lived her entire life in the community she loved. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Daniel Ernest Nead, and her brothers, Sonny and Morton August Wagner.

Martha is survived by her devoted children: Daniel Ernest Nead II (Nancy), Duane Wagner Nead (Joan), Maryellen Nead Salazar (Martin), and David Allen Nead (Kate). She was a proud grandmother to Cathy Nead Flood (James), Daniel Ernest Nead III (Wendy), Rosa Maria Elena Salazar Perez (Walt), David Allen Nead II (Taelor), Rachel Jolene Nead, Tyson Stephen Nead (Lindsay), Peter Martin Salazar (Michaelle), Jacob Daniel Nead (Megan), Amanda Ruth Helen Salazar (Amy), and Anya Samantha Nead; 19 great grandchildren (with another one the way) and 5 great great grandchildren.

A dedicated worker and nurturing presence in her community, Martha retired after 20 years of service as an elementary school cafeteria worker. She also generously gave her time to the Boy Scouts of America and was an active member of the Harbor Area Model A Club.

Martha found joy in life’s simple pleasures: sewing, baking, reading, jigsaw puzzles and solving word searches. She loved watching classic game shows and westerns, was always on the lookout for a new casserole recipe, and had a keen interest in trading stocks. Martha made frequent trips to Las Vegas, where she relished playing various Keno slot machines and Keno the old-fashioned way.

A viewing, memorial, and service will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at 1952 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90806. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Forest Lawn, 1500 San Antonio Dr, Long Beach, CA 90807.

Martha’s warm heart, devotion to family, and enduring spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.