Marta Lee (Peterson) Gladden, 62, passed away on September 27th, 2026, surrounded by her family in her Peoria, Arizona home. She was born in Phoenix, Arizona, on November 5th, 1963, to Theodore and Catherine (Clark) Peterson. Marta was a firm believer in Christ from a young age and would reminisce about her long talks with God as a child. She often spent time reading her Bible, researching the meanings beyond the text, and finding ways to live that Truth. She spent several years as a youth leader for Desert Christian Fellowship, helping to form their high school Oasis program. Marta also loved finding the beauty in things. She would look at the natural world around her in wonder and say, “Look at what God has painted for me.” She also loved creating her own beauty in the world through gardening, photography, scrapbooking, and creating beautiful multimedia artwork. Marta was survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Gary Gladden; her two daughters, Bryanna (Darwin) Ferrera and Elizabeth (Richard) Lake; and her five grandchildren, Vittoria, London, Eleanor, Elliot, and Theodore. Marta was preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Catherine, and her brother, Stephen. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Hospice of the Valley, Desert Breeze Community Church, and the many friends, family, and loved ones who have supported Marta and her family during her battle with cancer. She will be missed here on earth, but she is rejoicing in the presence of her Lord and Savior. Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
