Martha Ferguson Kiesinger

Martha Ferguson Kiesinger, 89, of Old Forge, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Hospice of the Sacred Heart in Dunmore, leaving behind a legacy of quiet love that will continue to be felt by all who knew her.

She was born in Avoca on February 19, 1937, and was the daughter of the late Charles and Blanche Spencer Ferguson. Martha carried a presence that was unmistakably her own, peaceful, steady, and genuinely kind. To be in her presence was to feel a sense of calm, as though the world softened and settled around you.

Martha was a devoted and active lifelong member of Bethel United Methodist Church in Avoca. Through her involvement in the Women’s Society and the Avoca Community Choir, she found joy in connection, in service, and in lifting others, never seeking recognition, yet leaving a lasting impression. Throughout her life, Martha worked for several local businesses and later retired from the Bon-Ton Department Store.

A graduate of Avoca High School, Class of 1954, she married the love of her life, Harold Kiesinger, in 1956. Together, they built a life rooted in devotion, family, and shared adventure. After retirement, they traveled throughout the United States, savoring winters in Florida as snowbirds, and embracing life on the road in their RV.

Martha found great joy in the simple beauty of summer, especially time spent camping with family in the Adirondacks. There, among the towering pines, quiet waters, and the gentle rhythm of days unfolding slowly, she was most at home. Those summers became more than memories; they became a sacred tradition rooted in family, connection, and a life lived close to what matters most.

As a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt, Martha’s presence shaped a family grounded in warmth, care, and connection. Her love lives on in each of them.

In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harold Kiesinger, who passed away on April 13, 2013, and by her sisters, Doris Harrison, Iva Mills, and Madge Davis.

She is survived by her children: Bryan Kiesinger of Old Forge; Jane Balent and her husband, David, of Exeter; Lynn Salsman and her husband, Charlie, of Pittston; Amy Bohenek of Old Forge; Neil Kiesinger and his wife, Denise, of West Side, Scranton; and Joy Mead and her husband, Karl, of Avoca. Also surviving are 18 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Martha’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of Hospice of The Sacred Heart for the exceptional care and compassion shown to her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of The Sacred Heart, 100 William Street, Dunmore, PA 18510.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Bethel United Methodist Church, 532 Main Street, Avoca, with Rev. Sharon Dietz officiating. Friends may call for visitation on Friday evening, April 3, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Kiesinger Funeral Services Inc., 255 McAlpine Street, Duryea. Family and friends are asked to go directly to the church on Saturday morning, as there will be no procession from the funeral home.

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