Martha L. Pruden, age 91, of Salem, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at Twin Willows Nursing Center in Salem.
Martha was born on August 18, 1934, in Salem, Illinois, the daughter of William Bennett “Ben” Stanford and Gladys L. (Kretzer) Stanford. She lived a long and meaningful life centered around her faith and the love she had for her family.
On November 17, 1957, Martha married John L. Pruden at Youngs Chapel Christian Church in Salem. Together they shared many wonderful years of marriage and worked side by side throughout much of their lives. Martha assisted her husband with the bookkeeping at Pruden Shell Station for many years and was also employed as an accountant for Graham Oil and Stock Farm, World Color Press, and Salem Business Center before her retirement.
Martha was a faithful member of Evergreen Christian Church in Salem and was also a lifelong member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren who were the center of her life.
She is survived by her son, John W. Pruden and wife Tara of Salem; her daughter, Susan J. Knapp and husband Mike of Salem; grandchildren, Kyle L. Pruden of Salem, Ryan M. Knapp and wife Gemma of Webster Groves, Missouri, and Kory J. Pruden and wife Ali of Salem; great-grandchildren, Payven, Pacer, and Paxy; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents and by her beloved husband, John L. Pruden.
Funeral services for Martha L. Pruden will be held at 12:00 noon on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Crouse Funeral Home with Stanley Morrison officiating. Burial will follow at Paradise Cemetery in Salem. A visitation will be held on Wednesday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to Evergreen Christian Church, Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, or the Alzheimer’s Association and will be received at Crouse Funeral Home who is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.
