Martha Paquin
Alton |
Martha Cadle Paquin was born on March 26, 1944, in Alton, Illinois, and sadly passed from congestive heart failure on June 5, 2024, in Naples, FL. She graduated from Jerseyville High School in 1962 and earned her Art Education degree from Millikin University. Her teaching career began in Jersey County, and in the 1980s, “Ms. Chad" was the beloved Art Teacher at Wood River High School.
After teaching, she opened and operated Potter's House Gallery in Grafton, IL. Her dedication to her art is evident in her hundreds of portraits, florals, abstracts, Alton, and Native American-themed watercolors, which continue to be enjoyed worldwide.
She approached life with an open mind, finding beauty and potential where others may not. She made bold moves with a clear vision. She embraced diversity and was a dedicated activist for women's rights, meeting annually in New York at the United Nations.
Despite health challenges, she maintained a positive attitude. Even during her hospital stays, she embraced the opportunity to connect with others and spread joy. As her physical abilities diminished, she found new sources of happiness in her gardens and with her many fuzzy and feathered pets. She recently rekindled her passion for pottery and completed an extensive series of hand-built, raku-fired pieces.
Martha along with her family celebrated her 80th birthday in March, which she claimed to be her favorite. She left with her sharp wit and fantastic sense of humor intact. She is deeply missed by her loving husband of 38 years, Bill Paquin, her son Matthew Chadwick (Cheryl), daughter Jennifer Hayden, and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Susan Adams and James Cadle.
Martha's light and inspiration will undoubtedly live on. An open-house celebration in her honor will be held on Sunday, August 18, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Jacoby Arts Center in Alton, Illinois.
