Martha Lou Smithling Gokey, 75, passed away after a long illness on Thursday, October 15, 2015 at her home. Martha was born in Lowville on September 29, 1940, a daughter of the late Karl and Laura Rice Smithling. She graduated from Lowville High School. Mrs. Gokey was a professional seamstress and worked for many years at Dapper Dan's. She was later employed by Caregivers, and retired in 2006. Martha was a wonderful homemaker, who enjoyed cooking, and watching Lifetime and the Classic Movie Channel. She was a very funny person, always laughing, whose personality and sense of humor were infectious. She will be missed. A loving mother and grandmother, Martha is survived by her daughter, Melissa Hillage and her boyfriend, Sim Williams; a son and daughter-in-law, David and Pooneil Bumstead; Judy Carrock, who was like a daughter to her; nine grandchildren, with special mention of Natalie, Noelle, and Niko; 10 great grandchildren; a brother and sister-in-law, David and Kay Smithling; several nieces and nephews; her "best friend" Philomena Stauring; good friend, Deana Shepard; and many friends at Steinhorst Apartments. She was predeceased by her son, James Olmstead; and her daughter, Debra Kizzer. Relatives and friends may call on Thursday, 5 to 6 p.m. with a memorial celebration of Martha's life at 6 p.m., at The Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger Street, corner of Mohawk St., Utica. For directions to the funeral home, click the link above.