Alma Martell

Alma 'Jess' Martell, 85, formerly of Watertown, passed away February 1 in Largo, Florida.

She was born October 19, 1924 in Watertown, the daughter of Raymond and Kathleen Baxter Wager. She graduated from Watertown High School in 1942. She married Joseph Martell on May 1, 1946 at Holy Family Church, Watertown. He died October 9, 1964.

Mrs. Martell worked in Watertown as a telecommunications operator and secretary for NY Telephone Company and was also employed with the Board of Education, Automobile Bureau, Employment Office, Electrical Union, J.P. Lewis Paper Co. and Post Engineers at Fort Drum. She retired from Bay Pines VA Hospital in Florida. After retiring, Jess enjoyed working part time in the pro shops at Willowbrook Golf Club and Pine Crest Country Club in Florida.

An avid golfer, Jess played in numerous tournaments and won several trophies. She also enjoyed playing cards, reading and watching golf. She was a long time member of the American Legion Auxiliary.

Mrs. Martell is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Vicki Martell, Wellesley Island, a daughter and son-in-law, Michelle and Lewis Fults, Evans Mills; seven grandchildren, Michael (Mika) Durhan, AL, MacKenzie Dickinson, Watertown, Megan Rodriquez, TX, Morgan Martell, TX, Joseph Fults, Evans Mills, Jana Fults Evans Mills and Lindsey Fults, NC; eight great grandchildren; two sisters, Marie Elger, Watertown, Louise Kaufman, TX, a brother, Robert, FL; a sister-in-law, Edna Wager; several nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, Joseph, a sister, Eleanor Howland and a brother, Frank Wager, predeceased her.

A summer memorial service will be held in July at Glenwood Cemetery. There will be no calling hours. Local arrangements are with D.L. Calarco Funeral Home, Inc.