Leiper, Martha Dudderar

Martha Dudderar Leiper, of Signal Mountain, died on Saturday, December 22, 2012.  She was 87.

Martha was born in Chattanooga and spent her early childhood in San Mateo, Ca. 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 70’s, with a return to Signal Mountain seven years later.  Martha was a dedicated homemaker who loved being a mom and grand-mom, 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 O’Rear 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 2-4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 28, followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. with Reverend 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.