Martha Leiper

Martha Dudderar Leiper, of Signal Mountain, died on Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012. She was 87.Martha was born in Chattanooga and spent her early childhood in San Mateo, Calif. She returned to Chattanooga with her family and graduated from Central High School in 1943. She married Richard Hudson "Dick" Leiper who soon began serving in WWII. Following the war, they moved to Signal Mountain where they started their family and lived for many years. A business transfer moved the family to Roswell, Ga., in the 70s, with a return to Signal Mountain seven years later. Martha was a dedicated homemaker who loved being a mom and grandmom, cooking, gardening, art, music, and especially fishing. She was of the Methodist faith and was a charter member of Signal Crest United Methodist Church.Martha was preceded in death by her husband; her parents, George Willard and Mary ORear Dudderar; and her sister, Nancy Lowe.Martha is survived by her sons, Michael Hudson Leiper and his wife, Martha, Richard Mark Leiper and his wife, Kelly; and grandchildren, Ben, Morgan, Carey and Ryan Leiper. She is also survived by her sister, Betty Broyles, of Knoxville; seven nieces and nephews, and two dedicated friends and caregivers, Anna Hixson and Sandy Davis. The family would like to express gratitude to the kindness shown by the staffs of Hospice of Chattanooga and the Manorhouse.The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 28, followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. with Rev. C. Mark Gooden officiating, at Hamilton Funeral Home, 4506 Hixson Pike at Hamill Road, Hixson.Memorial contributions may be made to Chattanooga Food Bank, Hospice of Chattanooga, or your favorite charity.Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson. 423-531-3975.