Petra Markham

Petra Markham, age 94, passed away peacefully at her home on July 11, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Spain, Petra later made the United States her home and proudly became a U.S. citizen in 1973. She embraced her adopted country with gratitude and love while never forgetting her Spanish roots and extended family in Spain.

She was a proud Navy Spouse of 20 years who supported her husband through deployments and numerous moves to new duty stations. She dedicated her career to caring for others as a Care Coordinator in a nursing home. Through all her endeavors, she had a gift for making people feel seen, cared for, and valued, and she carried that same loving spirit into every part of her life.

She shared 65 beautiful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Darrell. Together they built a home filled with love, faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion to their family. Petra was a loving wife, an extraordinary mother, a proud grandmother, and a cherished great-grandmother. Her family was the greatest joy of her life, and she gave of herself freely and selflessly to those she loved.

She is lovingly survived by her husband, Darrell Markham; her three children, Maria (Tony) Braithwaite, Jacqueline Markham, and Glen (Debbie) Markham; 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind extended family and many dear friends who were blessed to know her.

Petra will be remembered for her generous heart, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and unconditional love. She was the protector of her family, always putting others before herself and offering comfort, guidance, and encouragement whenever it was needed. She had a gentle spirit, a caring soul, and a remarkable ability to make everyone around her feel loved.

Her absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who loved her.

Though she is no longer by our side, she will always be with us—in our hearts, in our memories, and in the values, she instilled in our family. We will miss her every day, love her always, and carry her legacy with us for the rest of our lives.

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Petra's life at a visitation and funeral service on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Dignity's Pacific Beach Chapel, 4710 Cass Street, San Diego, CA 92109. Following the service, Petra will be laid to rest at Miramar National Cemetery, where she will be honored alongside the military community she so proudly supported.