Martha J. (Delcourt) Cultrera

HIRAM — Martha Jane (Delcourt) Cultrera, 69, passed away peacefully at her home with her husband and her sister, Debbie, at her side on Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2012 after a lengthy illness.

Martha was born Aug. 20, 1943 in Westbrook to Roland B. and Helen (LeClair) Delcourt, the second of seven children. She attended Westbrook schools and graduated from Westbrook High School in 1961.

Moving to Boston in 1969, Martha worked as an administrative assistant to the original Boston Patriots football team and team owner Billy Sullivan. She handled administrative duties for team management, as well as for such legendary players as Houston Antwine and Jim Nance. Martha’s career also included working with Gregory Fossella Architects and Capitol Bank, both in Boston.

She married Richard Cultrera in 1981 and together they returned to Maine in 1985.

Before her retirement, Martha worked for Hanover Insurance in Portland.

Martha spent her lifetime devoted to her husband, family and friends. Always there with a smile and a helping hand, Martha could always be counted on to lighten a dark moment and remind you that strength in faith would see you through. Her smile and sense of humor were contagious.

Martha’s interests included taking (and sharing) endless photos of family, pets, flowers, wildlife and anything that represented God’s glory. The special love in her life were her pets. So many rescued dogs and cats owe their lives and happiness to Martha’s kindness and big heart. Most of her life, several dogs and cats were always a part of her extended family.

Martha is survived by her husband of 31 years, Richard Cultrera of Hiram; six brothers and sisters, Mark S. Delcourt of Wesley, Michael R. Delcourt of Standish, Thomas (Jeff) Delcourt of Fountain Inn, S.C., Marybeth (Delcourt) Baker of Westbrook, Deborah (Delcourt) Pinette of New Gloucester and John C. Delcourt of Westbrook; 14 nieces and nephews; 20 grandnieces and nephews.

A memorial service for Martha was held on Saturday, Oct. 27 at 1 p.m. at the Hilltop Baptist Church, 1890 North Road, (Route 160) in Cornish. Pastor Robert Irish officiated. Arrangements are under the care of Watson, Neal & York Funeral Home, Cornish.

In lieu of flowers, Martha would hope that you would hug a child and rescue a pet. Memorial donations may be made in Martha’s name to The Animal Refuge League, PO Box 336, Westbrook, ME 04098-0336.