Martha Jane Baron Kaufman

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Martha Baron Kaufman of Washington, DC, who died peacefully on her 90th birthday, September 9, 2026, surrounded by her three children, Laura, Gregg, and Jackie.

Born and raised in High Point, North Carolina, Martha went on to attend Louisiana State University before earning her bachelor's degree from Hunter College in New York City. She began her career as a teacher and spent the next few years starting a family on Long Island before joining the Suffolk County Department of Labor, where she dedicated nearly three decades to serving the community.

Martha found particular purpose in helping displaced homemakers, primarily women who were returning to the workforce after years devoted to raising children and caring for their families. She understood the challenges of starting a new chapter and was deeply committed to helping others find opportunity, independence, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her compassion extended beyond her work to every part of her life, including her love of animals. She had a special place in her heart for the overlooked and unwanted and was always drawn to adopting the shelter pet that others might pass by.

After retiring in 2005, Martha embraced the opportunity to travel and, most importantly, spend more time with her children and grandchildren. She took great joy in nurturing her garden, staying connected to her community, and being surrounded by family.

Martha is survived by her three children, Laura Baron of Washington, DC; Gregg Baron (Anu) of Silver Spring, MD; and Jacquelyn Baron Hasson (Patrick) of Frankfort, IL; and her seven cherished grandchildren, Amanda, Asha, Sarita, Rohan, Abigail, Emily, and Andrew.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Marty Kaufman; her parents, Joseph Ward and Lela Packer; and her brother, Joseph Ward (Buddy) Packer Jr.

Martha will be remembered for the example she set and the qualities she instilled in her children and grandchildren: resilience in the face of life's challenges, independence of spirit, generosity toward others, and an appreciation for humor and laughter. These are gifts that will continue to live on through the people who loved her.

A celebration of Martha's life will be held on November 21, 2026, at 2:30 pm at Friends Meeting of Washington, 2111 Decatur Place NW, Washington, DC. Family and friends are warmly invited to join us in sharing memories and honoring her memory.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Martha's memory may make a donation to Cleveland Woodley Park Village, The Humane Rescue Alliance, or an animal shelter of your choice.