Lois M. Smith Martin

Lois M. Smith Martin, of Burlington, passed away Sunday, August 13, 2023 at Lahey Clinic in Burlington. She was 71.

Lois was born on March 30, 1952 in Newton, the daughter of the late James F. and Mary G. (Greelish) Smith. Raised in Waltham, she was a graduate of Waltham High School.

Lois began her professional journey working at local law firms in administrative and managerial roles. However, her true passion lay in the tech field, where she excelled as a Quality Assurance Engineer. It was evident that Lois's educational pursuits played a major role in shaping her successful career. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Massachusetts Boston and supplemented her knowledge with a Certificate in Computer Systems from Bentley College. Her  belief in the power of education spurred her to work full-time while putting herself through college.

Prior to retirement, Lois embarked on a new venture as a real estate agent at Caldwell Banker, where she thrived as an agent with exceptional professionalism and dedication. Lois also actively participated in the Burlington community as a town meeting member, which she saw as an opportunity for her to contribute meaningfully and make lasting connections with fellow residents.

While Lois's professional accomplishments were commendable, it was her personal qualities that  endeared her to loved ones. Lois was humble and quiet, with a subtle sense of humor that never failed to delight those who paid attention to catch it. Conversations about politics and religion were among her favorite topics as she engaged in thoughtful discussions with others.

Outside of work, Lois indulged in an active outdoor lifestyle that included skiing, biking, walking, hiking . . . and more skiing. Traveling held a special place in Lois's heart, and she found joy in meticulously planning trips months in advance. Her trips to the British Isles were particularly memorable, adding to her ever-growing "bucket list."

Lois's spiritual life was of great importance to her, representing an ever-evolving journey fraught with questions and contemplation. She found solace and comfort in her religious beliefs and dedicated much of her time to helping her church community at Hancock UCC Church in Lexington. The unconditional love and support she received from this community during challenging times gave her strength, making Hancock Church feel like a second home.

Her commitment to family was unwavering, and she cherished the moments spent with her beloved niece and nephews. Lois created lasting memories by taking them on annual vacations to the White Mountains, giving them  experiences they will forever hold dear. Though she faced many health challenges throughout her life, she met them with remarkable strength, dignity, and grace; never once complaining about the obstacles she encountered along the way. In particular, she demonstrated extraordinary devotion as a caregiver for both of her parents during their elder years.

She would tell you that her happiest memories were meeting and marrying the love of her life, Scott H. Martin. They discovered they had shared values as well as a deep appreciation for outdoor activities and travel. Alongside Scott came his two wonderful sons, Scott and Bryan, who became an integral part of Lois's loving family circle. She considered herself incredibly fortunate to have such a loving family and cherished the added blessings.

In addition to her husband Scott, Lois is survived by her brother Kevin J. Smith and his wife, Jo Ellen, of Hudson, Florida, and Elaine A. Pugliese and her husband, Frank, of Burlington; her step-sons Scott R. Martin and his wife Nikki, and Bryan D. Martin and his fiancé Michelle, all of Phoenix, Arizona; as well as nieces and nephews who held a special place in Lois's heart.

Family and friends will honor and remember Lois’ life by gathering for calling hours in The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street (Rte. 20), Waltham on Monday, August 28th from 4 to 7 p.m. A Funeral Service will follow the next day on August 29, 2023, at 10 a.m. at Hancock UCC Church in Lexington, 1912 Massachusetts Ave, Lexington, MA 02421. Her burial will take place in the afternoon of the 29th at Calvary Cemetery, Waltham. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Lexington Food Pantry: lexingtonfoodpantry.org/how-to-help or any charity of your choice.