Malita Arlene Martin

Malita Arlene Martin, 85 of Simpsonville, SC died Sunday, October 29, 2023, at her home, following a brave battle with cancer. She was born in Perth Amboy, N.J. on March 1, 1938, and was the beloved daughter of the late Clara Kuhlthau Maher.

Malita was the adored wife of Joseph P. Martin for 51 years until his passing. She is preceded in death by her siblings, Michael Maher, Arlene Anderson, and Jerry Maher. She is survived by her son, Scott (Mary) Martin; daughter, Dawn (Walter) Chittum; her grandchildren, Jacob and Ashley Chittum; and a brother, George Patrick “Pat” Maher.

Malita was a graduate of North Plainfield High School in New Jersey. She supported her husband, worked by his side, and together created a successful Construction Company (Maldon Corporation), which built industrial and commercial buildings. Their hard work and dedication allowed them to retire early to the beautiful Island of Hilton Head, SC in 1985. Malita was drawn to Hilton Head because of her passion for the game of tennis, which she played competitively for many years and was ranked as a 4.0 player. You could find her glued to the TV during professional tennis tournaments such as Wimbledon and the US Open. She looked forward to her weekly luncheons and Mahjong with friends, but most of all devoted her Saturdays to volunteering as a cashier for God’s Goods which she absolutely loved. She loved meeting new people and even tried to learn Spanish so she could speak to everyone. One of her greatest pleasures was doing puzzles or playing 500 rummy with the family, which she would win more times than not!

Malita relocated to Simpsonville, SC during COVID to be closer to her family and began making a life for herself there. She had a zest for life that was reflected in everything she did. She had a flair for decorating her home, especially during the holidays, and entertaining a house full of people brought great joy to her life. She is remembered for her selfless love and extreme creativity. This was reflected through the many things she did and made for friends and family over the years. Whether it had been sewn, crocheted, or simply created through an idea, you could guarantee that it was made with all the love in the world and cherished by those who were lucky enough to receive it.

Malita’s grandchildren were the shining lights in her life. She cherished hearing the stories of how Jacob was becoming a little entrepreneur himself and all the trials and tribulations of the jobs he dabbled in while witnessing the rewards of all his hard work. Her face would light up and tears filled her eyes as she watched and listened to Ashley perform on stage, during musical performances or singing solos, and she would always try to attend volleyball and softball games. There is peace in knowing that their grandma will always be watching over them throughout their lives.

Malita’s presence will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Her bedroom eyes of indescribable brown, short stature, loving personality, and a smile that lit up the room will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known her. Her life was a testament to the power of love, the importance of family, and the joy of living each day to its fullest. Her memory will forever be a beacon of strength, courage, and resilience for all who loved her.

Malita will be placed to rest and will join her husband during a private ceremony with family at the Resurrection Garden at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, Bluffton, South Carolina.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the South Carolina Ovarian Cancer Foundation at 110 Edinburgh Court, Greenville, SC 29607

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