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November 20, 2007

Martha Kostyra: A Tribute

Comments

A special tribute for such a special woman. I didn't want it to end. It made me cry. Thank you (little) Martha for sharing your wonderful Mom with us for all of these years. What a gift.

I just watched the fantastic video tribute to big Martha. One of my late husband's favorite meals was meatloaf and I never learned to do it well until I tried the Meatloaf 101 recipe. It is perfect! Thanks, Big Martha.

I absolutely loved Big Martha's segments on the show. When she was on I sat down and listened! It was like watching my own Grandma on TV. When I watched the tribute to her I remember seeing every segment, and probably more than once. She must have had a wonderful life but I still have tears in my eyes and I will miss seeing her. What a great lady. Thank you Martha, for introducing us to and sharing your mother with us.

That was a wonderful tribute. Yes, it made me cry and miss my mother. However, I feel so happy inside for having watched a celebration of a truly remarkable woman. Thank you, producers, for doing such a class act.

Dear Martha,

My sympathy goes out to your and your family for the loss of your mother. She did and you do inspire me.

Dear Martha & family,

Please find the strength in knowning that your mother has her blessings on all her chidren, by their love for sharing and caring for others. I have watch her grown with you though the years on tv.

She would be deeply missed.

God Bless.

Brenda Phillips.(FAN)

The memories you shared will last a lifetime. She may be gone, but never forgotten. Sincerely

Martha, please accept my condolences on the loss of your mother. Having also lost my own mother, I understand that you will have a perpetual hole in your heart which no one can replace.
Thank you also for a wonderful TV show which is outstanding - I enjoy it very much. Your are truly an inspiration. Ann - Dayton, Ohio

Dear Martha and Family:

I will miss seeing your mom in your program. What a delightful person she seem to be. I enjoyed the segments where she was the teacher of one of her many special recipes, or told a story...always made it fun, and laughter was part of her trait.

I am sure you, your family and her friends will miss her very much, and to this I have to say that I am very sorry for her passing.

To a life well lived Big Martha! you have touched a lot of people, and many of us will miss you!

Silvia Parry

Dear Martha and Family:

I will miss seeing your mom in your program. What a delightful person she seem to be. I enjoyed the segments where she was the teacher of one of her many special recipes, or told a story...always made it fun, and laughter was part of her trait.

I am sure you, your family and her friends will miss her very much, and to this I have to say that I am very sorry for her passing.

To a life well lived Big Martha! you have touched a lot of people, and many of us will miss you!

Silvia Parry

That was so beautiful. your such a strong woman and i really look up to you. Your mother was so cute and funny and wonderful. Just think of all the wonderful years you had with her. God Bless
xx
Nikki
Australia

Lovely. Thank you so much for sharing your mother with all of us over the years.

Dear Martha and family,
My players go out to you and your family at this time of sorrow. I lost my mom not too long ago and she was also an inspiration to me and I also learned so much from her. I see that you enjoyed your mom through watching your TV segments with her ...I know she will be mised by you. I pray your sorrow will be lessoned by your great memories of her.
God Bless,
Paula Yannello - from your mom's home town :) Buffalo, N.Y.

Martha: Your mother taught you well, and we have all benefited. May she always be a source of inspiration to you. Andrea Gaynor

Beautifuly done. How gracious to think of sharing such cherished remembrances! May your times be warmed by these thoughts and by all who gather around you.
Regards.

Dear Martha: Every episode with you and Big Martha was a special treat for me. My mom was an alcoholic & my dad left when I was an infant. Your relationship with Mom was everything I wanted but didn't have. I'm 68 yrs. old now and never had a daughter, so I couldn't share what you had. Envy, YES, but JOY, too in seeing you 2 interact in such a fulfilling life!

Dear Martha,
My sympathy go out to you and your family. I enjoy watching your show every day and more so when your mom is a guest. She made me laugh every time.
God Bless.

Dear Martha,
My sympathy go out to you and your family. I enjoy watching your show every day and more so when your mom is a guest. She made me laugh every time.
God Bless.

Dear Martha,
I enjoyed the many laughs and many memories of you and your Mom,they will never be forgotten.
Thoughts and Blessings are with You and Your Family.

What a wonderful glimpse into such an extraordinary life. She truly was a shining star. I was moved by what I watched not only because she was such a wonderful person but also because of the unique and honest relationship you shared with her. The genuine comfort and closeness of your relationship shows in every clip you had shown. She may not be here on Earth but she will always be in your heart and you have these amazing memories to smile about for the rest of your life. I hope you find peace in that in this very difficult time. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Martha,
I was so sad to hear of "Big Martha's" passing, what a lovely lady she was. No matter the age we hate to see them leave us, my Mom was 40 when she passed and there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of her. She is with the Lord now and I am sure he is enjoying her meatloaf as well as gettng ideas on any decorating that heaven needs. I just hope my Mom is at the table with her enjoying this great meal. My prayers are with you and your family. You both made a great team and I will truly miss seeing her on your show.
Cindi from Loveland, Ohio

I wanted to extend my sympathy to Martha and her family. Sorry for your loss. I also wanted to share that in 2004 I lost my Mother too and that one of our shared enjoyments was watching Martha together and we always looked forward to seeing Mom join in the show. I will never forget the laughter Martha and Mom gave to me and my Mother. Rest in peace.

My family are so sorry to hear of the passing of your Mom. We have enjoyed many episodes of Martha Stewart when your Mom was on with you. We would like to say we will be praying for you and your family.

What a wonderful tribute, thank you for sharing with us.

My sympathy with great respect and honor.

How blessed you were to have such a great mom.I'm sure you will give her a fitting send off. Sorry for your loss,our thoughts are with you

The Martha Show staff made a beautiful creative piece with this touching tribute for your Mom. I am sure she is smiling & keeping an eye on her clan below. When Christoper began singing I was a goner the tears came flowing. We are gonna miss this lady indeed! Please take care of you now and try to have a pleasant Thanksgiving remembering your Mom and the good memories you all shared together~
Pam From Ca.

Moms are GREAT. My mom is 75 and still doesn't have a GRAY hair in her head. I hope when my children look back, they can say that I touched their lives as much as my Mom has touched mine. My thoughts are with you and your family. The tribute to her was wonderful. She would be very proud, as I know she always was.
Phyllis Thornton, Cleveland, Mississippi

I always loved the shows that Martha was on when she cooked Polish food. I am of Polish descent and enjoyed comparing her recipes to my mother's. I'm sure many people will miss her as I will. She seemed like a truly lovely lady.

Martha,
So sorry to hear of the loss of your precious Mom- Just wanted you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless and comfort you and warm the memories within your heart as you hold her close within.

Dear Martha and family, We heard of your mother's passing and wish to send our best thoughts to you. My mother passed away at 93 a few years ago. It is very difficult to loose one's mother. I loved watching the various segments on the show of Big Martha who was very intesting and so funny.

Most sincerely, Marie Browne in Santa Barbara

I just saw the beautiful tribute to Big Martha on Fine Living and watched it again at this link. I'm sitting here crying! Your beloved mom would be so proud of you and your family for this tribute and for the unbelievable grace and strength you are showing by going on with the show.

You have certainly made your mom proud today Martha. My prayers are with you all at the loss of this unbelievable woman!

I am deeply saddened for your loss. Your mother was an inspiration. May the Lord continue to comfort you during this time. A Blessed Thanksgiving to you Martha...you are truly a very special soul.
Danielle Muller thevintagedragonfly.typepad.com

MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. I WAS WATCHING YOUR SHOW AND READ THAT YOUR PRECIOUS MOM HAD PASSED. I LOST MINE LAST YEAR, JUNE 26TH AND CAN EMPATHIZE WITH THE PAIN. MRS. STEWART, I HAVE ADMIRED YOU FOR YOUR TENACITY AND YOUR DETERMINATION. I USE YOU AS AN EXAMPLE OF A WOMAN IN A MAN'S WORLD IN MY ECONOMICS CLASSES. A TRUE LADY THAT WHIPPED THE XXXXXX OUT OF THE OLD BOYS. FORGIVE ME FOR BEING BOLD..BUT I LOVE YOU, TAKE CARE

Oh Martha - that was such a beautiful tribute to your mom. She would have been so touched. Thank you for sharing her with us all these years. My best to all of you.
Stephanie

Dear Martha,
Your beautiful mother and you are such an inspiration to me. I am 41 yr. old mother of three children. I lost my mom to cancer when I was 4 years old. I feel so incredibly blessed to have a daughter now to share that special bond with. I am living the life that I always dreamed of when I was growing up. I have watched your show for years and loved the segments with your mother. You have both enriched my life so much. I would never have known to do the things I do in the kitchen with out you! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing your mom with me. Still missing my mom and now yours....May God bless you, your mom and your family during this difficult time.

I shall miss seeing Big Martha on you show. She was a joy and inspiration to me. The two of you had so much fun together. You were good role models for all Mothers and daughters. Sincerely, Linda Martin

Martha,
Such sad news. I lost my Mother 4 years ago the 29th of this month. Also after a long life and short illness. Now I celebrate Thanksgiving in a very special way each year. I am thankful for her! It took a couple of years but now her memory fills me with pride to be her daughter. Such a blessing to say those words I assure you!
Take time to be sad and miss her, then be thankful.
Warm regards to you and yours.
A friend.
dk

Dear Martha,

I have been trying to come up with one word to describe my impression of your mother. The one that I keep coming back to is "lovely". Lovely woman, lovely teacher, lovely mother, lovely grandmother. We were all blessed that you and your shows brought her into our lives.

She will be missed by so many.

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Dear Martha,
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the death of your Mother. Like thousands of your viewers, I enjoyed seeing her and learning from her on your show. She was a wonderful, cheerful woman and will be greatly missed. Her legacy is valuable and one I'm certain that you and your family will cherish. Your tribute to her memory is beautiful and moved me to tears. It IS a good thing.

....I shall miss your mom...
I love her and what a great daughter you are!!!!!!!

Thank you for sharing your life
with me....God Bless You................

This is a beautiful tribute! I have been watching Martha Stewart Living since I was a little girl - now 23, I am still enjoying the show, and my favorite segments have always been those with Martha and Big Martha. It was lovely to see such a strong, caring mother-daughter bond.

Thoughts and prayers are with you and yours - she will remain one of my idols.

What a beautiful, fitting tribute to a gracious woman.

That was such a wonderful tribute, it was really touching. It made me cry and laugh. I really love the Blueberry segment. She was just adorable. She will be missed. Hope you are doing well, I am keeping you in my thoughts.
Claudine
Portland, Oregon

Dear Martha, I my Mom passed away on September 6, 2007 and she was my best friend. My thoughs and prayers are with you and your family.

Bea Hillmann

I'm so sorry for your loss. Your Mother, was so beautiful. I loved watching her on your show, she reminded me so much of my Grandmother. I'm keeping you and your family in my prayers during this difficult time.
Blessing,
Diane

I'm overwhelmed with how beautiful a tribute that clip was of you and your mom. I loved when she was on your shows and I am sitting here crying for your loss. My prayers are with you and your whole family but surely a woman as wonderful as your mom is in heaven smiling at you. God bless, Joan

What a wonderful, moving tribute to your mother. It brought tears to my eyes, remembering all those TV segments she did with you. Thank you for sharing this most personal and private time of your life with us. We love you.

Pam Newberry

We see you sometimes twice a day and altho we are faceless in the crowd,we form an attachment to you.I prayed for your mom while you were in WV. I worried abt her then.You both came thru strong.TG
....
I watched the tribute twice and grieved and cried twice.I know,she's YOUR mom ,but we love her too.I lost my mom after Christmas just a couple years ago,so I relate and it's still somewhat fresh to me too.I guess I grieve for both of us.WE have our Moms all our life...no other bond is like it.The world lost another stedfast MOM.

May God greet her as a friend..make her welcome.
"You ran a good course,good and faithful...."
raised good children...accomplished much.
WE miss you...bye Big Martha...
loved by many.
......................
May you and yours find comfort.

What a lovely lady-reminds me so much of my Nana. Sorry for your loss Martha but how lucky you were to have her for so many years! And how lucky she was to have you as proof of the pudding that she was a phenomenal Mom.
Caryl

I enjoyed watching this very much. You're mother seemed like a wonderful woman.

Hi Martha,

That was a lovely tribute you put together. It was emotional for me and I am sure it must have been for you too.


Dear Martha, I saw this amazing tribute to your Mother when it aired on your program, and am so happy to have now seen it again. The clips of her appearances on your show are really incredible. Thank you for posting this wonderful tribute. Best, Michael

Just wanted you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Your mother seemed to be a wonderful woman and I enjoyed seeing her on your shows so many times.

dear martha and alexis,
she was so dear,you were so lucky to have her as a mother! not only did you inheret her talent...you inhereted her heart.
god bless her.
eileenregan
annapolis,md.

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beautiful mother Martha. I am 62 and my mother has been gone for many years as well as the mothers of all my friends and family. Somehow "Big Martha" filled the empty spot left by not having a mother for me. I enjoyed seeing her on your shows through the years. It was heartwarming to watch your relationship over the years and this will be a loss for me and I'm sure many others who no longer have their "Big Martha"

Dear Martha and Family,
Your mom warmed my heart everytime I saw her on your show. She was born in 1914 and my mom was born 1912 there was just something special about that generation they had such spunk and a real love of life. I lost my mom four years ago and miss her terribly but she loved life so and I know she would expect me and my family to continue all the wonderful traditions that she and her mom started. You will have such wonderful memories to keep you going and I just loved watching all the clips you showed of your mother it brought a tear to my eyes but watching also reminded me about that wonderful generation. Please accept my sincerest sympathy.
All the best,
Marie Hudgeons

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I enjoyed watching the two of you share the kitchen on your show, she was a special person.
My condolences
Susan Wettstein

Dear Martha,
The video tribute to your mother was extremely touching and heartwarming. She was most certainly a very fun-loving and gregarious person. And thank you for posting some of her favorite recipes on your MSL Web site. I was especially pleased to see her Creamed Spinach recipe listed.
I remember as a small child, standing next to my grandmother, watching intently as she made her Thanksgiving creamed spinach. My grandmother, being of Moravian heritage, called it spenat, which always made us kids laugh because it sounded so funny. After her passing in 1977, I continued the tradition, and plan to make it again this year. I am truly amazed how a simple thing like a family recipe can open the floodgate to such happy and cherished memories.
Thank you again for sharing your personal thoughts and feelings with us during your time of loss.
Take care my dear.
With all my love and respect,
Jon

Dear Martha and family, Thank you so much for sharing your Mother with all of us. I have watched the tribute and highlights several times and find doing so very cathartic. I never noticed before how much your laugh sounds like your Mother's. I will always think of her when I hear you laugh which I hope will happen very often. Take care and always remember how much you are loved. Jan

Martha I was so sorry to here of the passing of your mother. I know that she will be truley miss by everyone who knew her. Althought I never met her in person I feel as though I knew the kind of person that she was kind, sometimes fisty, but always someone you could count on for a helping hand. I'll be praying for you and your family and just know that she will always be there in spirt. Kellie

What a beautiful tribute to your Mother. I remember so many of those episodes and loved the interplay between you two. She was so charming and funny, such a great smile! I am sad that you have lost your mother, but thank you for bringing her onto your programs and sharing her with us all.

Dearest Martha,
I just enjoy you so much, and I am so sorry about your Mom. You've been a part of my life for so long, I feel a real kinship with you. My Mom is 89, and the thought of losing her just brings me to tears. I admire you so much and just think you are beautiful inside and out!
Love and Peace,
Lorraine

Theodore Roethke wrote,
"It is neither spring nor summer: it is always."

I loved her sense of humor and her loving behavior towards you (Martha). I appreciated her wisdom and frugality.She was an example for all to follow.

My heartfelt sympathy to you, your family, and to your mother's many many fans.
Phyllis

Darling Martha,
As I watched and listened
to your lovely tribute to
your Mom, on this morning's show, I loved, loved, loved it. Of course, it made me smile and chuckle....the two of
you there, together, so
happy, so enjoying each other and what you were happily creating together. Of course, I found myself crying, again, but that is ok, too. It is surely a part of loving. God bless us, every one, as the dear Tiny Tim would say. You know, I was thinking, Darling Martha, that I do hope you all will put together a lovely DVD, at some point, of much more footage of you and Big Martha, so that we, your many loving fans, may have it to watch and re-watch, and to treasure. Perhaps you would even like for the profits to go to special work, maybe even for a special, tenderly-loving, private
animal rescue home, that
takes in special cases and gives them the love and care that they need and deserve, including animals such as Llamas and donkeys and horses, et al. I know that many of us would love to be a part of such a deserving project. I know that you understand
how we feel. I love how you love the creatures in your life, certainly including wild things.....Bless you, dear Martha. Well, good-bye, for now. Remember that you are in my heart, and Alexis, and
everyone. May all of you
share a warm and loving Thanksgiving celebration, with many happy stories of Mom/ Grandma, et al. Namaste. Much, much love to all.
xoxoxo Berta in Cincinnati

P.S. Do, please, kiss and hug your darling, furry babies, for me. I so love it, when you have any of them on the show. Thank you for sharing them with us, dear Martha, and for allowing us to experience your own special love for them.

My deepest sympathies to you and your family. Your mother was a wonderful example of what every mom aspires to be. I hope that someday my children will have the fond memories of me that you have with your mother.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you from across the world in Australia.

That was a beautiful tribute, Martha, and you did wonderfully in your presentation. You are such an amazing woman.

Your family and especially you and your mother will be in my prayers on Thanksgiving as I give thanks for what you both have taught and shared with us over the years. I am really going to miss your mom!
Trish/Boca

My sincerest sympathy to you and your family on the death of your wonderful mother. Her appearance on the show was such a highlight and I remember her as an inspiration for living life well and with a great sense of humor. Thank you,too, Martha for featuring and honoring her-says much about you.

Dear Martha,
My heartfelt prayers to you and your family on the loss of your mom. My own 82 year old mother has been battling lung and now kidney cancer for the last year. Up until that point she had worked a 30+ hour a week job at our local Publix deli! This generation of women are my heros. Everyday I stand in awe of their grace and strength. The life given us by nature is short. But the memory of a well spent life is eternal. So is the love for them in our hearts.
Many Blessings to you,
Dawn

Martha,

My deepest sympathy is sent to you and your family. Watching you, your mom and family on tv has really made all of you apart of my family. I was struck with grief when I heard Big Martha passed, but we all know she's in a great place, cooking and crafting up a storm!!!

Mary Goulart
North Easton, MA

She was cute as a button. Nice tribute to a wonderful lady! God Bless

What a beautiful tribute to your Mother. I always enjoyed her segments on your show.

What a wonderful video tribute! I sat watching it and cried...

Mary Lou

Thank you for sharing all those wonderful past memories of your mom...I know to alot of us she felt like our "adopted" mom...she will be missed.
Pauline Mucciaccio

My sincere condolences on the loss of your mother. My mother died six years ago, and I think about her everyday.

Martha, I am so sorry. My Mom is 86, and not nearly as active as your Mother. We will all miss seeing her. Please accept my sympathy, Pat at paclegal4@aol.com

Such a touching tribute. Thank you so much for sharing. Watching the clips really shows how much Big Martha lives on in you, Martha. All the best to you and your family this Thanksgiving holiday.

Dear Martha and Family: Our family always looked forward to the times when your Mom was on any of your shows, she was such an elegant lady and was such a great cook. We the fans will truly miss her on your shows and just know that we all are saying prayers for your family during this time of loss. Our deepest sympathies to all of you.
Diane Barnett and Family

What a wonderful tribute to wonderful woman.
My grandmother passed away this summer just past so I empathize with you and your family during this time.
My thoughts continue to be with all of you.

I just watched the beautiful tape that your staff did in memory of your mother. Like I said before she was a wonderful teacher and truly remarkable. What special memories.

I was saddened and surprised by your Mother's Death. I am so happy I saw her on your show with your Aunt. What a treasure you had...she did a wonderful job...she created a Masterpiece! Your wonderful, I will remember her always.

May God Bless You Always,

Freda Peteuil

To Martha and her family
With deepest regrets to hear of the passing of your Mother. We lost my Mother in Law this spring and she was 94 years young and still so full of life. My own mother was taken from me in 1993 after battling cancer. They always stay close to us in our hearts and thoughts each and every day until the day comes when we will join them.
Prayers and best wishes

Kathleen Martin

While I never had the honor of meeting Martha in person, she was certainly a very special person who made a huge impact on me. She was a great teacher and made learning so much fun. There were many times that I wished I could have been there in the kitchen, learning in person rather that from my living room. She will be greatly missed.

I am very sorry that Martha Stewart's mother passed away. I am a klutz in the kitchen and home, but I enjoy the show. Martha Stewart was inspired by her mother. I believe - actually I don't really know where we go after we pass on - maybe one becomes a beautiful orchid. My prayers are with the family.

Martha...
I was very sorry to hear of your mom's passing. My thoughts are with you.
Jo

I'm sad to hear the new of your mom, she was a great lady and I always enjoyed seeing her on tv with you, irene colorado

MY SINCERE CONDOLENCES. I REALLY ENJOYED YOUR MOTHER AND HER GRASS ROOTS TYPE OF HUMOR. I KNOW YOU WILL MISS HER, AS WILL I. MUCH LOVE, M.J.SIMS

MS
My sincere sympathy is with you and your family at this time. Your Mom was an interesting and lovely woman.
Sara Jones

MS
My sincere sympathy is with you and your family at this time. Your Mom was an interesting and lovely woman.
Sara Jones

Nothing more can be said other than simply beautiful

Happy Thanksgiving to You and Your family

We were so very sorry to hear about your mother's passing. We enjoyed hearing about her and mostly enjoyed watching her cook with you, or just be there in the audience. You have our deepest sympathies. It is very hard to lose your parent.

My deepest sympathies on your mother's death. What a lovely lady--she reminded me so much of my own grandmother. I always enjoyed her calm and centered persona, and the mother/daughter repartee between you. I feel like I've lost Grandma all over again! Thank you for sharing her with us.

I am so sorry for the your lost. I've watched your mother on many of your episodes. It hurt me dearly to find out that she moved on.
You have my deepest regrets.

Many Blessings

Cyndi

Big Martha and her family are in my prayers. Being Polish, it is always a special treat to watch her cook Polish specialities. Her gulimki reciept is my go to.

I would have loved to have spent the day in the kitchen learning from her. May your pain in this trying time be eased with the knowledge that we all will miss her.

What a wonderful tribute to your mother... She always made me smile when she was on the show... :)

Again I say do a book, like a memory book with Big Martha's recipes and memories and pictures. You could also dd a kit so the rest of us could collect and save recipes,pics and memories from our Mothers. A DVD is great, but a book is so much more personal. I love watching the tape. How blessed you are to have had such a Mother.

Sorry about the loss of your dear mother, Big Martha. I so enjoyed seeing the two of you on your program. In fact, I even enjoyed the reruns. Please accept my sympathy.

Nancy

Dear Martha and family -
What a wonderful tribute to your mother. She was a special lady and I'm so thankful you shared her with us. We were blessed to have experienced her love, her warmth and her humor. My thoughts and prayers are with you, especially during this holiday season. I have a wonderful, close relationship with my dear mother and I cannot imagine the sense of loss you must feel. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your family and for sharing your loss with us. ~Adrienne~

I became a fan years ago, when I saw how your honored your mother. My sympathy to you at this time. I know you will miss her and I am thankful everyday that I still have my mother to honor.

Dear Martha,

I hope it will be comforting to you to remember that, as Catholicism teaches, the body ceases but the spirit does not.
I am certain that Mrs. Kostyra's entry into the kingdom of eternity and happiness was joyous.

I said a rosary for your mother.

William Hawkins
Los Angeles

I enjoyed seeing your mom on your shows, and just viewed the Trubute clip. and it was very nice!!
Your very lucky she lived a long time and lucky to have this clip to view . Thanks Judy

What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful soul. I saw it on your show and cried tremendously; then watched it again on your blog and more tears came! Thank you for sharing and my continued well wishes for you, Martha, and your family during this difficult time.
Love, Sarah
Toronto, Ontario

I will miss your mother. She was such a joy on your show! Her recipes were great and watching her cook was like watching my own mother. Big Martha was like a family member to me and I share in your sorrow. Thank you for sharing her with us on your show!!

As a priest who celebrates at the Lord's table, I know how important the family table is. If we are able to celebrate at the table of the Lord; the way we celebrate at the family table is so important. As I have watched over the years, I always take joy seeing fellow Western New Yorkers ( Niagara Falls for me )but more importantly have grown to appreciate the priesthood of the family and its table. Your Mother and you prepare the way of the Lord for a whole nation. My condolences, prayers, a mass for your Mom. Sincerely, Fr. John Lindsay, Modesto, California, Church of St. Stanislaus.

Martha and the entire family. I want to extend my sympathy to you on the passing of "Big Martha". She was such a delight on the show. What a wonderful woman she was. I wish you all well.

This video is a very nice tribute to "Big Martha". I have been watching for more years than I realized and enjoyed every minute she was on the show with Martha. My mother is also a major fan - at the age of 85 - in Nova Scotia, Canada. I particularly enjoyed the interaction between the Martha's, the easy humour, and the respect for each other.

martha and siblings,

i looked foreward to seeing your mom on the show.......she is a year younger than my mom.
your mother was my favarite of all of your guests....she will alway's be in my thoughts.

i have been looking for a bathing suit like your mother is wearing in the pic you share with us........why can't this style come back again.

martha, my deepest regrets that she has passed on, bet she met my mom and their both talking about you and your success and me and my 50th wedding anniversary on the 27th.

our mom's are awesome and will be missed.
god bless,
sandy

Heaii Maratha I am so sorry about your mom! My grandmom told and I was so sad you and your family are in my prayers!!!

Martha,
We were so sorry to hear about your mother passing. I lost my mother 3 years ago October and I know how difficult it is to loose someone so important in your life.
Just wanted you to know that you are in are thoughts and prayers..
Laurie Bailey
Olive Branch, MS

Dear Martha,
My heartfelt sympathy to you and all of your family. She has given such joy and knowledge to those of us who have watched the two of you on your programs through the years. So many wonderful years.
May you have a very blessed Holiday Season.
I will miss her also.
With Kindness,
Mary

Dear Martha, I loved seeing you and your Mom working together you taught me how to be a better homemaker. I will pray for your mom when we pass a cemetary and during the Rosary. Yours in the Holy Family, the Swatzell family

A beautiful tribute to a wonderful woman.

Dear Martha: My sincerest sympathy for your mother's passing. Courageous, loving, firm and with a sense of humor, what a mom, what a lady. We have all been blessed with her presence even those of us who did not know her directly but knew her through your generous sharing of your mom through your persona. God bless all of you, you are in my prayers.

Dear Martha and family.
I wish to send my deepest sympathies to you and your family in the lost of your mother..How wonderful to have had her in your lives for so many years!

Hello Martha,

I just wanted you to know I will miss your, Mom.

I'm so sorry to hear about your mom-her segments on your shows were my favorites!!!She was delightful!!!She will be missed, but never forgotten-
I see you have posted some of her favorite dishes-I hope someday you will have a cookbook with all of them-it will be a best seller!!!

My thoughts are with you at this time Martha, and I truly will never forget "Big Martha"

Glynis Maruk

Martha - I did not know that your mother had passed away. She was such a wonderful lady to watch. You were so lucky to have such an inspirational and lovely mother.

I am shocked about Big Martha!!1 I never heard until just now and I'm just besot with grief for you and your entire family..such a sadness; you are so brave to carry on with your graceful composure. It must really hurt; shed a private tear and know that we are all behind you to lift you up, Martha.
Sincere condolances at this awful time.

Dear Martha Stewart and Family:

Your Mom was a Grand Lady in every sense of the word. May Flights of Angels lead her to her rest!

A wonderful. loving tribute to your Mom. I truly enjoyed watching her on your shows.She was a lovely and entertaining lady. I know you all will miss her terribly, as well as her fans.

My heart goes out to you & your family at this very sad time. Your Mom was truly a role model. We all try to raise our children the best we can, to be thoughtful, kind, loving and generous to our family and friends and help others. Your Mom's legacy will continue through her family and everyone that knew and loved her.
Bev Gilavish
Calgary, Alberta
CANADA

Thru the radiance which was so bright be now forever taken from our sight, though nothing can bring back the hour of splendor in the grass or glory in the flower, we will grieve not, rather find strength in what we remains behind .... Of course Martha is the strength that will carry us through....

Dear Martha,

The tribute to your Mom was a treasure. The voiceover and the end where Christopher is singing to his Grandmother is something he will never forget. Thanks for including it on you blog. I don't see how Big Martha could have packed one more moment into this life. How fortunate to have her on 40 video segments.

We would like to send you and your family our heart felt sympathy on the passing of a wonderful person and what we consider a great friend.
Bless all your family at this time of loss

Marybeth and Ron Ragucci

Martha,
I am preparing Thanksgiving dinner and lunch for 28 Australians in Brisbane Australia. I am here observing their elections this Saturday. I have been planning this feast for two weeks thanks to your website and calls to my Aunt Floss and Uncle Bill in New Jersey who did this flawlessly every year for me. I thank you for sharing your mom with us for all these years. My prayers are with you.
Teresa Touey

Martha,

Just to let you know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.

I realize the passing of a member of the family is difficult but just think of all the wonderful memories you have of your mom and for that you, I'm sure, you are thankful for. She will be remembered by all.

Now you have your own Angel to watch over you and your daughter. My you have a blessed Thanksgiving.

My sincere sympathy,
Jo Collura

Dear Martha & Alexis,
So sorry to hear of the loss of your mom and grandmother. I have kept you in my prayers since hearing. She seemed like a incredible woman, and that you were a very close family. I hope you have a Thanksgiving full of Gods peace and looking back on all the special Thanksgivings memories you shared with your Mom.. Keeping you in my prayers...
Blessings...
Kim

Dear Martha, I'm very sorry to hear about your mother passing.

My husband was the one who told me, I had just made omelets for dinner and put his on his plate, he smiled and said well good try. My reply was well I'm not Martha Stewart, he replied ya that's for sure and had a little laugh that was when he told me about your mother, I asked him if he was joking he said no he had heard it on the radio. So then I came right to your web site to see it was true. Again I'm very sorry to hear the news.

Roberta Gillies
Thunder Bay, Canada

I was very lucky to have met Big Martha on many occasions. I work with little Martha on her daytime talkshow. It was always a treat when Mrs. Kostyra was on the show, or when she came to visit. She had a great sense of humor, and she had a wonderful smile. She will be missed by so many. I will cherish the talks we had.

What a beautiful tribute to your Mom. It was always a pleasure to watch her on your show.

Anna
Ottawa, Canada

The tribute is so beautiful for such a beautiful mother. I've watched the show many times when "Big Martha" was there and I so enjoyed the way Martha and her mother was able to laugh and talk with such easy. The love between them was very evident and I know that Martha will miss her, but she also will have the beautiful memories for always.

Simply, thank-you for that lovely, lovely piece.

Janet Villeneuve
ON, Canada

Martha,
Our family with be praying for you and your family. Big Martha we will always you!

Wow! I just saw the wonderful tribute you had on the program. We will all certainly miss "Big Martha" . I think I actually may have been lucky enough to have caught all of the segments that you have had with your Mom on board. Best Wishes Martha and remember they are never far away, as long as they are in your thoughts...

Take Care and warmest regards form Richmond, Virgina
Jon

I am so sorry for your loss, Martha. I lost my mother so I know the empty spot you have. It will never be filled, only learn to live with it. I cried through the wonderful tribute to her. It was beautiful, just like the person she seemed to be. I always enjoyed her visits to your set. My prayers go to you and your family. I have admired you and your work for many years, I was heart broken when you had to stop doing your show from one of your homes. I lived "the good life", through you. I also learned so much that I could adapt to my own life to make it more pleasant and learned women can do just about anything and trying to be perfect is a wonderful thing, not something to hide. I love that you teach on your programs, not just show. Please continue your good work.

I was paging through Sunday's Chicago Tribune's obits when I read that your mother had passed away. This saddened me so, for I really enjoyed watching you and your dear mother prepare vaious Polish cuisine on your shows. My mother died in September of 2005 and she too was born in 1914. When I saw your mother recently on the Martha Stewart show, I thought how fortunate you were to have her still. Watching the video tribute, I cried. I'll keep you and Big Martha in my prayers.

What a beautiful tribute to your mom's life and memory. I always enjoyed watching her especially around the holidays. Her old-world recipes reminded me so much of my own childhood. In many ways she seemed like a part of my own family. Dziekuje (thank you) for sharing her with us!

Martha, This tribute is so beautiful. When I saw it on your show, I sat and cried for you. We know how difficult it is to go on as if everything is ok when it's so not ok. Your Mom has a strong loving daughter and family. She was so proud of you. God Bless. Jayne

What a beautiful tribute! Deepest Sympathy to you and your family.

Dear Martha,
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of your lovely mother. I have watched your show for years and loved the segments when Big Martha appeared with you. She was wonderful and it appeared that the two of you had a special relationship.

Hopefully she did not suffer too much and her memory will be a blessing.

Hope your Thanksgiving will not be too difficult for you, but always remember the wonderful times you shared and the love you had with her.

You and your family were truly blessed with a wonderful mother "Big Martha". Whenever I could watch your shows, I must admit the ones with her were my favourites. Yes, it was very apparent why she was dubbed "Big Martha".
All my heartfelt sympathy is extended to you and your family. She will be missed worldwide.
Sincerely,
Maureen

Dear Martha,

Thank you so much for posting this lovely tribute to Big Martha. Her joyous spirit comes across so clearly even over the internet. We'll all miss her.

A beautiful tribute for a beautiful and remarkable woman...

My sympathies to you and your family. I know how you are feeling, as I lost my Mom 4 yrs ago. Big Martha will be greatly missed. I enjoyed seeing her on your show, and having her make her comments to you, and her testing you to make sure you had learned your lessons well.

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your dear mother whom I enjoyed watching on your show which I Tivo daily and watch after work. I love your show and you've come a long way. You look great, comfortable in your format and we love you!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Mei-ling

P.S. My daughter and family moved to Old Orchard Beach, Maine this year and they love Maine. They manage the Waves Oceanfront Resort and she will be redecorating all 153 rooms and cottages, hopefully she know to go to Macy's.

Martha,
I was so sad to hear of the passing of your dear mother last week. I know Thanksgiving is one of your favorite times of year, so I wanted to send you this note to send my sympathy for your loss, at this most difficult time.

I lost my own father on December 12, in the middle of all the holidays a few years ago and I understand how sad you must be right now.

May G-d comfort you in your sorrow and may you only know GOOD THINGS in your LIFE and in the LIVES of your loved ones.

Love,
Janis Elspas

Martha,

The tribute made me cry but I so appreciate you sharing your Mom with all of us.

I was so sad to hear about your mother's passing right before Thanksgiving, since I know that holiday has always had a great family connection for you. It must be really painful, especially today which is Thanksgiving. That's why I'm sending this note today.

I lost my own dad in mid-December a few years ago, and I understand how much deeper the pain of loss of a parent can be during the holidays.

May G-d comfort you at this time and bless you with only GOOD THINGS all the rest of your life and bless all your loved ones similarly.

Love,
Janis E. in Los Angeles
Jersey Girl who attended your L.A. book signing and finally got to meet you!

Beautiful.

Mrs. Kostyra can have whatever she wants now, since she is now with God. My condolences to Martha on the loss of her mother and to Alexis on the loss of her grandmother. The sky is made brighter because the stars have welcomed one of their own home. My grandparents will give Mrs. Kostyra a grand tour of Heaven.

MARTHA,

FANTASIC TRIBUTE!!!! MY HEAR AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

DAVID LALONE
MICHIGAN

WHEN YOU ARE SORROWFUL LOOK AGAIN IN YOUR HEART
AND YOU SHALL SEE THAT IN TRUTH
YOU ARE WEEPING FOR THAT WHICH IS YOUR DELIGHT.

Martha,
I too lost my mom in November 3 years ago when I was 39. She did not live to see my son grow up and start school and is missing many other big events of my life. You are blessed to have had all these years with your mom and she got to see many of your accomplishments. Count your blessings this Thanksgiving and I hope your heart mends quickly.

I know you will receive thousands of comments and condolences because of your mother's passing. This is a tribute to the both of you. Many of us admire you, and we respected, even envied, the raport we saw between you and your mother. Your relationship was an example to all of us. You always treated her with such respect on your shows, we could all witness the strong bond between you. Your mother will be missed by millions. I don't know if that mattered to her. I sense she was a private, quiet persson. I hope she never found her popularity a burden. I wish my own mother had lived to such an age, but the truth is that no matter how old we are when we lose a parent, we suffer terribly. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.
Tammy,
Ottawa, ON. Canada

Dear, Martha
I am sorry about Your loss,My deepest sympathy.
Niech Bog ma Cie w Jego opiece.
(I am polish) My heart goes to You and Your family .
I am your long time listener

Simply Beautiful!

Dear Martha,
I've read so many of your fan's sentiments about your wonderful Mom and can't think of much more to say...they said it all. I cried when I saw your beautiful tribute on Monday's show, she was one terrific lady.
I met your Mom once in Westport, and it was fun chatting with her. She appeared just like she did on your show and I will always treasure that. We had our Polish connection which was something to be proud of!
May you find happiness in all that you shared together and I THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for sharing her with us, your fans.
May God Bless you and comfort you at this time.
Here is something from an old Eskimo saying:

"Perhaps, they are not stars, but rather openings in Heaven,
where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines upon us
to let us know they are happy." ~

Big Martha is happy because she is one bright star in heaven.
Much love and hugs,
Paula M.

Beglad you had your Mom as long as you did and in fairly good health until recently. My Mom had a stroke and was just there for 3 years. My Prayers are with you and your Family. I am glad I got to see her on your show this week for the last time.

Betty Schultz

I am terribly sorry to hear about your mother's passing. My mother passed away 2 1/2 years ago. It has been very difficult since she has gone. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I'm sure she is keeping the angels on their toes trying to keep up with her while she is watching over you! God bless you!

Dear Martha, I am so sorry to hear about your mother. She reminded me so much of my mother & I used to love watching her on some of your other shows. I came to America when I ws 26 & hv missed my mother everyday of my life. So I know what you are feeling. Thank God you were able to have her so close to you all these years. WE shall miss her too. By we I mean my grandaughter an I. She is now seven & we used to watch yr show at 9 a.m. Ca. time. She called you the cooking lady. my sincere condolence. Sylvia

I'm very sorry for your loss. I loved to watch your Mom and you chatter throughout your shows. You two reminded me of me and my Mom. They both have a wonderful sense of humour! Always brightening our days!

Dear Martha,
My sister and I were sorry to hear that your mother passed on. She will be missed on your show.
Maybe David Letterman will let you borrow his mother. While she can never replace your own mother, we think David's mom would be an excellent guest for a segment of your show.

I am so sorry here about your mother. I just love watching her on your show. She was a lovely woman, I just wish I cook like her.

Oh, Martha,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. I love hearing you share the stories of your family and your mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know you will continue the legacy that she has left you. Thank you for sharing a little bit of her with all of us.
Kim Waite, Kim's Custom Cards (Deamers into Doers 2007)

A beautiful and touching tribute, I remember fondly so many of the clips. All my best.

Dear Martha,
Maria and I are very much fans of yours. We fallow you from the very beginning.
We know that you are an inspiration to everyone at any age. This is the greatest tribute to your mother. We know Mrs. Kostyra's children and grand children are truly blessed to be the children of Big Martha.
God Bless your Mother, you and your family
Serefino and Maria Cambareri

I'm so sorry for the loss of your mother. My mother and I used to cook holiday dinners together until she got dementia and I always watched the programs with you and your mother with loving memories of my mother and I. It was always very special to have the two of you share the memories of family and holidays with all of us.

Dear "Little" Martha,
I am sitting here with tears after viewing the video and dedication to your Mom. What a pair the two of you were. Very heartwarming to see, as I too have lost my Mom in 1991. She was two years younger than your Mom.
Martha, as a Christian, we do believe we will be together again and for eternity, so more times are in store with our loved ones.
You are wonderful.
Thanks for everything you do.
Love,
Marge Boas

A beautiful tribute to a wonderful woman.

so sorry to hear about your mom .i loved watching her when she was on your show .she reminded me off my grandmother who name was also big martha who past away she was 90 years old ..my prayers are with you and your family

Dear Martha,
My deepest sympathy at the loss of "Big Martha". We've enjoyed "being with you" throughout the years.
I lost my sister in April and am mourning her loss.
It's good to look back on the happy memories. Your tribute to your mom was beautiful and brought tears to my eyes as I'm sure it did to others.
Rose Tait

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. I watched your tribute to your mom and was brought to tears. What a dear and loving mom and so many wonderful memories you and your family share! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

With loving sympathy,
Terri Martin

Dear Martha & Family:
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. What a wonderful tribute to your mother and such an inspirational woman. I have enjoyed all of the Polish recipes that your mother has shared with us over the years, especially the pierogi recipe.
Thank you.

Martha,
We went to Nutley High School together. I remember your Mother and was saddened to hear of her passing. Her warmth and good humor was evident each time she appeared on your show - it was a pleasure to see her smile and hear her anecdotes. You are lucky to have those memories forever on tape. My prayers are with you.
Phyllis Romaine nee Walsh
Fort Mill,SC

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. I was 57 when I lost my Mom and our family still remembers how she "wiggled" the turkey leg to make sure it was done. I learned so much from her "old school" and although I've tried many new recipes, we treasure her old and treditional ones.

dear Martha,
just learned that your dear Mom passed away. my prayers are with you & your family. i have always "seen" her as the reason for what you have become.
bambee
manila, philippines

so sorry about your mom passing! so hard to have elderly parents, I can so relate, my thoughts and prayers with you!
cheryl

Dear Martha,
I am deeply sorry for the death of your mom. I have watched you and her from the very beginning when you first started on TV. You had your mom on many times and I felt like I knew her. You are an inspiration to many of us. You have kept your dignity throughout your hard times.Again my condolences.

I am so sorry to hear about your Mother. I lost my Dad 9 years ago this month. Our prayers are with you. I read the James Van Praagh book "Talking to Heaven" after he passed and it helped me through a really rough time.
God Bless,
Jen Rizzo

I enjoyed the tribute to your mother. I feel like I knew her by watching all the times you have had her on your shows. What a wonderful woman. Thanks for sharing her with us.
Vivian Love, Yorba Linda, CA

Dear Martha:
You continue to be in my prayers at this time. May God and the memories of your mother bring you comfort in the days ahead. This is quite a lovely tribute to your mom and how fortunate to have her on video to cherish for years to come. I hope you and family had a warm, loving, Thanksgiving.

God Bless You...

My mother and I were very sad to learn that Big Martha passed away. We so loved her segments with you ... those were our favorites. My mother is about Big Martha's age and could relate so much to her. Also, my mother is not "computer savvy" and, like many older people might not be able to post a note to you on the computer. I hope you realize how many people admired your mom who cannot post a note. Our sympathy for you and your family. We hope you will occasionally run the segments with your mother on the program. She was a lovely lady!
Kathy and Edith

Please accept my sincere sympathy for the loss of your mother. She was always smiling and it was evident that she enjoyed her family and her life. I always enjoyed the cooking segments you had with her. It was obvious from where your love of cooking emerged. I am so glad her mind stayed sharp up to the end. You and your family deserve to be proud of how you kept her active and included her in so many activities. I know this kept her sharp. As a nurse for 45 years, I have sadly seen the opposite in so many elderly folks. It takes an extra effort, on some days, to include an elderly family member in family gatherings. I am so sorry for your loss. It is hard, especially when a loved one has been so close to your heart.

Tears came to my eyes when I was watching the lovely tribute to your mom. My mother also passed away in Feb. of this year. I feel her very close to me especially when I cook her favorite recipes. She too was an excellent cook!

Martha and Family -

Thank you for sharing your beautiful mother with all of us. She was a true inspiration through the years for all of us who aspire to live our lives to the fullest throughout the years and into our "golden ages".

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and yours.

I loved watching you and your mom cook together.I am so glad you have had this time together, what fond memories you will always have of your mom.

I loved watching you and your mom cook together.I am so glad you have had this time together, what fond memories you will always have of your mom.