Longtime Humboldt Nurse Lawana Martin Dies at 92

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Lawana Lee Martin, a beloved nurse in Humboldt County, passed away on January 12, 2026, at the age of 92. Martin dedicated nearly 50 years of her life to nursing, working primarily in the emergency room at General Hospital and later at Mad River Hospital and St. Joseph Hospital. Known for her skill, leadership, and deep faith, Martin cared for countless patients over the decades and was affectionately called "Mother Martin" or "Sarge" by her coworkers and former patients.

Why it matters

Lawana Martin's life story exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated healthcare workers can have on a community. As a nurse for nearly half a century, she touched the lives of countless patients and served as a mentor and inspiration to younger nurses. Her unwavering commitment to her faith and family also made her a beloved figure in the Eureka area.

The details

Born in 1933 in Bellingham, Washington, Lawana Martin overcame polio as a child and went on to graduate from Eureka High School with a straight-A average. She met her husband, James L. Martin, at a youth group at Grace Baptist Church in 1948, and the two married in 1952. Together, they raised seven children. Lawana Martin graduated from the College of the Redwoods nursing program in 1970 and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Humboldt State University. She worked in various nursing roles, including as a night supervisor at General Hospital and a supervisor at Mad River Hospital. Martin also taught nursing courses at the College of the Redwoods and worked at St. Joseph Hospital and a dermatology office before retiring in 2016 at the age of 83.

• Lawana Martin was born on December 18, 1933, in Bellingham, Washington.
• In 1937, at the age of 4, Lawana Martin survived polio.
• Lawana Martin met her husband, James L. Martin, at a youth group at Grace Baptist Church in 1948.
• Lawana and James Martin married on January 10, 1952.
• Lawana Martin graduated from the College of the Redwoods nursing program in 1970 and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Humboldt State University.

What’s next

A celebration of life for Lawana Martin will be held at First Covenant Church of Eureka (2526 J St.) on Saturday, February 14 at 2:30 pm, with a reception to follow.