Martha C. Castro

Martha C. Castro, age 58, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Armenia, Quindío, Colombia, on September 1, 1967, Martha spent her early years in her beloved hometown before emigrating to the United States in 1980 in pursuit of a brighter future for herself and those she loved. After first living in New York, Martha eventually made her home in New Jersey, settling in Garfield in 1996, where she became a cherished member of the community. A woman of determination and compassion, Martha earned her Associate’s Degree in Nursing from Eastwick College in Hackensack and dedicated much of her professional life to caring for others. Before entering the medical field, she owned and operated flower shops, combining her entrepreneurial spirit with her lifelong love of flowers and beauty. She later worked for ten years as a Phlebotomist with Bio Reference Laboratories in Elmwood Park, where she was respected for her kindness, warmth, and gentle care toward patients and coworkers alike. Martha was a parishioner of Holy Name Roman Catholic Church. She found joy in crafting, planting, decorating, and collecting treasured keepsakes. Her creativity and eye for beauty were evident in everything she touched, especially in the warm and welcoming home she created for her family. Martha especially loved flowers, which reflected her vibrant spirit, nurturing heart, and appreciation for life’s simple joys. Above all else, Martha was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose greatest happiness came from spending time with her family. She shared a loving marriage with her husband, Carlos Castro, and was a proud and caring mother to Katherine Suchocki and her husband Pawel, Danny Granada, Ashley Castro, and stepson Dorian Castro. She was the cherished grandmother of Issac, Jordan, Amaya, Preston, and DJ, and was overjoyed with anticipation for the arrival of another grandchild whom she was so excited to meet. Martha is also survived by her brother, Robert Cuenca. She was predeceased by her parents, Danilo Cespedes and Gloria Arbealez, as well as her brother, Christian Cuenca. Martha will be remembered for her loving heart, creative spirit, generous nature, and the deep love she gave so freely to everyone around her. Her memory will continue to bloom in the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Martha C. Castro

September 1, 1967 - May 9, 2026