Martha Robinson Frank

Martha Robinson Frank, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, nurse, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025, at Hock Family Pavilion Hospice in Durham, North Carolina. She was 81 years old.

Born in July 1944 in Crescent City, Florida, Martha grew up with a strong spirit of dedication and compassion that guided her throughout her life. She was the first in her family to attend college—a path that would shape her legacy of care and service.

Martha received her nursing license in 1964 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Barry College in 1973. In 1985, she completed her master’s degree through the University of Florida’s College of Nursing, becoming part of the very first master’s program for nurses in the state. Her research explored the genetic causes of developmental disabilities and their effects on families, culminating in her dissertation, “Anxiety, depression, and psychosocial dysfunction in parents of developmentally disabled and behaviorally impaired children.”

Martha worked in hospitals for more than two decades, caring for patients of all ages, with a special calling in pediatrics. As an advanced registered nurse practitioner, she became an influential voice in developing guidelines and protocols for the care of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. She also lent her leadership as Secretary of the Tampa Bay Advanced Practice Nurses Council, advocating for excellence in nursing practice.

Despite her many professional achievements, Martha’s greatest joy was her family. She was married for nearly 63 years to her high-school sweetheart, Joseph Frank, with whom she built a life rooted in love and faith. Together they raised two daughters, Allison Davis and Joanne Grosshans, instilling in them the importance of education, compassion, and humor. Martha never missed a recital, gymnastics meet, or special milestone, no matter how busy her schedule. She delighted in her role as grandmother, doting on Lilian Grosshans, Vivian Grosshans, and Paige Davis, who will carry forward her sense of wonder and joy.

Martha’s life was filled with passions that reflected her love for learning and creativity. She was an avid reader who was rarely without a book in hand. She enjoyed scouring antique shops in search of pewter, Hummels, and dolls, and also sewed doll clothes with care and skill. Her home was filled with the treasures she collected and the love she poured into her family.

A devoted member of Bethel Christian Center in Durham, Martha could always be found in her and Joseph’s favorite pew on Sunday mornings. She was active in the women’s prayer group and was a steady presence in the church’s charitable efforts, always giving of her time and heart to others.

Martha is survived by her beloved husband, Joseph Frank; her daughters and sons-in-law, Allison and Victor Davis, and Joanne and Phillip Grosshans; and her cherished granddaughters, Lilian, Vivian, and Paige. She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Dorothy Robinson.

Martha’s life was defined by generosity, steadfast love, and a commitment to lifting up those around her. She touched countless lives through her care, her encouragement, and her faith. She will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments, but for her joy, her laughter, and the grace with which she lived.

Her family takes comfort in knowing she is now at peace, and her legacy of love will live on in all who were blessed to know her.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Martha’s memory to Duke Hospice at Hock Family Pavilion, whose compassionate care provided comfort in her final days.