Martha Susana Almeida Ribadeneyra, age 92, of Chicopee, MA, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Martha was born on Jan. 30, 1933, in Quito Ecuador to Lucila Chiriboga Almeida and Alfonso Almeida. Her journey to the United States began in 1963, when she arrived from Quito with her children, eager to reunite with her husband, Dario Augusto Ribadeneyra. Their love story continued in New York, and eventually, they settled in Chicopee, Massachusetts, where they dedicated over five decades to building a life together. Their union was blessed with eight devoted children. The family grew to include sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, 22 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Martha worked at Elco Dress Co for many years as well as the Springfield Public Library’s Children’s Room. A role which suited her caring nature and love of children. While raising 8 children and working hard, Martha also attended night classes at Holyoke High School to learn “key punch” data processing. She then spent some years working in administration at Grenier Family Photography before retiring in 2008.

As a mother of eight, she was the heart and soul of a large and vibrant family. Her home was a place of endless warmth, laughter and celebration. Martha loved music and was known to randomly break out in song. She was a graceful dancer who enjoyed nothing more than sharing a tango with her husband at the many family parties over the years. She taught her children the importance of family, hard work, kindness and generosity. Martha will be remembered for her great sense of humor, her love of singing, an immeasurable strength and immense love of her family. Her wisdom and support knew no bounds. She was deeply appreciated and loved.

Martha was predeceased by her beloved husband of 66 years, Dario Augusto Ribadeneyra; her sister Fabiola Almeida; her brother Augusto Muñoz; her grandson Brandon Michael Simpson; and granddaughter Sarah Jane Zajac.  She leaves behind her sister, Jenny Almeida Ribadeneyra and a legacy of love through her children - Roque Ribadeneyra and his wife Margaret; Patricia Grenier and her husband Larry; Catalina Zajac and husband Tom; Maria de Lourdes Suglia and husband Charlie; Dr. John Ribadeneyra; Maria Augusta Marchia and husband Jimmy; Erica Cristina Simpson; and James Ribadeneyra.

Her spirit will be carried forward through her grandchildren who include Kari Ribadeneyra Carmichael, Nicole Grenier Townsend, Dr. Christian Grenier, Jessica Zajac, Thomas Zajac jr., Jamison Zajac, Christopher Zajac, Alissa Zajac McLarney, Jennifer Suglia, Charlie Suglia, Alex Suglia, Nicholas Suglia, Michael Suglia, Jason Ribadeneyra, Jeremy Ribadeneyra, Anthony Marchia, Clarissa Marchia, Daniel Marchia, Jonathan Marchia, Lauren Simpson, Tyler Simpson, and her many great-grandchildren.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff at RegalCare in Holyoke, MA, The Arbors in Chicopee, MA, as well as to Stacey and the team at New England Hospice for their kindness and compassion over the years. A very special thank you goes to Martina Guerrero, whose care, companionship, and love meant so much to Martha and her family—both at home and during her time in the facilities.

Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Martha’s beautiful life will be held on November 21, 2025. Calling hours will begin at 11am at Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, Holyoke, MA. A mass will be held at the St. Jerome Chapel in Holyoke, MA at 1pm followed by a burial service at St. Jerome Cemetery, Holyoke, MA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we find comfort in the beautiful memories Martha leaves behind and the enduring legacy of love she built for her family.