FLORENCE, MA – Martha Elizabeth Catuogno (Tooley), lovingly known as Marti, 82, of Florence, MA. passed away on January 5, 2026, at Hospice of the Fisher Home in Amherst, Massachusetts, embraced by the love of her family, pastors, and dear friends.
She was born on June 18, 1943, in Fremont, Ohio, to Clayton Tooley and Erma Marie Tooley (Rothhar).
She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Defiance College in Defiance, Ohio, and pursued graduate studies in Special Education at the American International College in Massachusetts.
Marti was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend. In addition to raising her children, she built a meaningful career in education, working as an elementary teacher and later as a special educator.
She volunteered for many years with the Girl Scouts, First Churches, and the Smith College Botanic Garden. She has been a faithful member of First Churches of Northampton for over 50 years, active in the First Churches Dorcas Society, and found joy and community in her art groups.
Marti had a deep love for beauty, creativity, and nature. Her garden was her sanctuary, and her grandchildren were her greatest joy.
She was previously married to John Gunther on March 17, 1968, and to Raymond Catuogno on February 24, 1974.
Marti is survived by her daughters Mary Rothhar Catuogno Crowe (David Crowe) of Weston, Florida; Anne Tooley Catuogno-Rewis (Rodney Rewis) of Florence, Massachusetts; Carol Glover of Alexandria, Virginia; and Elizabeth Catuogno of Easthampton, Massachusetts as well as stepchildren, George, Marguerite, Raymond Jr., and Nancy.
She is also survived by her sister, Barbara Sapio of Pensacola, Florida, and her nine beloved grandchildren: Dylan Peltier of Orlando, Florida; Amy Charlotte, Andrew, Amanda, and Adam Crowe-Chandler of Amherst, Massachusetts; David and Samuel Crowe of Weston, Florida; and Vance and Georgia Rewis of Florence, Massachusetts.
A Memorial service for Marti will be held at First Churches of Northampton, 129 Main St., Northampton on Saturday, January 17, at 11:00 a.m. In Marti’s words, “Flowers are appreciated. Gifts may be given to First Churches of Northampton.”
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