Erla Z Martin of Akron, PA went home to be with the Lord on Monday, December 4, 2023. After a short illness with pancreatic cancer, her final days were spent surrounded by family.

Erla was born July 27, 1939, in Ephrata, PA, daughter of Clayton M. and Katie (Rissler) Zimmerman. A dedicated mother and grandmother, she was an accomplished gardener and quilter, and known for her love of all animals and the outdoors. Naturally athletic, she impressed her family with her physical strength and endurance, especially when gardening and playing baseball.

She is survived by E. Darrell Martin, her husband of 65 years; her daughters Christine Hurst (Clifford), Teresa Lanza, Dianne Martin, Cheryl Napolitano (Daniel); grandchildren Caryn Hurst, Daniel Martin, Katie (Hurst) Fisher, Emily (Hurst) Stoltzfus, Joshua Napolitano, Lucas Lanza, Sonja Napolitano, Tristan Lanza; and great grandchildren Nyairrah Martin, Weston Fisher, and Colton and Emmett Stoltzfus; five siblings, John Zimmerman, Earl Zimmerman, Leon Zimmerman, Anna Weinhold, and Ruth Horst. Erla was preceded in death by her daughter Beverly Johnson; sons-in-law, Barry Johnson and Edward Lanza; three brothers, Paul Zimmerman, Ivan Zimmerman and Clayton R. Zimmerman.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 16 at 11:00 at Ephrata Bible Fellowship Church, 491 Peach Road, Ephrata, PA. Immediately following the service, the family will receive friends and family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ephrata Area Rehab Services (300 W. Chestnut St., Ephrata, PA 17522) which assist adults with intellectual disabilities.