Martha A. Shows

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Martha Ann Shows, affectionately known to many as Mathann, Mot, and Showtime. Born on November 15, 1948, in Detroit, MI, Martha was a force of nature, embodying the traits of ambition, generosity, intelligence, and courage throughout her life. Her indomitable spirit touched and influenced countless lives, making her a cornerstone in her community. Her unwavering faith in Christ, nurtured under the guidance of Reverend Dr. R. Lamont Smith at Chapel Hill Missionary Baptist Church, was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Martha's intelligence and ambition shone brightest in her professional life. A remarkable individual, she began her career with the State of Michigan at the tender age of 18. Her contributions to the state were recognized early on, as she received a certificate of merit in 1968 for a process she created that vastly improved State services. Over her 35-year career, she served in various capacities, including as a licensed Social Worker and an Institutional Training Officer with the Department of Corrections. Her invaluable services earned her high praise and recognition, with state senator Burton Leland honoring her with the highest accolades. Martha's academic pursuits were equally impressive. She graduated from Wayne State University, where she was recognized for her outstanding scholastic achievements, and was later granted membership in the Golden Key National Honor Society.

Martha's life was a testament to the power of generosity and community service. She tirelessly volunteered her time to help Judge Alex J. Allen Jr. achieve his seat in the 36th District Court and actively contributed to the Brewster Old Timer organization. She loved her hometown of Detroit, remaining a lifelong resident until she moved to South Bend, Indiana, to live with her daughter in 2016.

Martha was a vibrant soul who loved life. She was an avid bowler, travelling globally to compete with various leagues. Her love for travel took her to places as diverse as Hawaii, China, and Israel. She knew how to celebrate life, whether it was through a party, a game of cards, or simply spending time with her loved ones. However, what mattered most to Martha was her family. The oldest of three girls, she was fiercely protective of her siblings and had a special bond with her nieces and nephews. 

Martha is survived by her daughter Tracy (Henry) Miller, her son Marlon (Saida) Shows, her grandsons DeVante’ Miller, Xavier Shows, her granddaughter Phoenix Shows and her sister Diana. She was preceded in death by her father Otis Sanders, her mother Charletter Sanders, her sister Carolyn Sanders, and her brother William Flaggs.

As we mourn Martha's passing, we also celebrate her remarkable life. As it is written in the Bible, "Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy" (Psalm 126:5). Martha sowed seeds of love, generosity, and wisdom in her life, and now she is reaping her reward in Heaven. 

-Humbly submitted by the family. 

The family will be having a memorial service at a later date in her hometown of Detroit, MI. 

We invite you to leave your memories and upload photos of Martha to the memorial page, honoring her life and the strong legacy she left behind. Her story does not end here, but continues on in the lives of those she loved and influenced.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alford's Mortuary. Please keep the Shows family in your thoughts and prayers.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Martha A. Shows, please visit our floral store.