Martha Lee Bax, age 88, of St. Elizabeth, passed away on Thursday, December 24, 2020, at her home. She was born in St. Elizabeth on April 21, 1932, daughter of the late Herman Joseph and Leona (Beschienen) Tappehorn. On October 20, 1956, in St. Elizabeth, Martha Lee was united in marriage to Norbert Xavier Bax, who preceded her in death on July 3, 2008.

Martha Lee babysat out of her home, caring for many generations of children for over 40 years. She was a wonderful homemaker and assisted her husband Nobert at Bax Grocery Store that they owned and operated from 1959 to 1982. She loved gardening and tending to her flowers. Martha Lee was a devoted member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church in St. Elizabeth and St. Ann's Sodality.

She is survived by one son, Darrell Bax of St. Elizabeth; five daughters, Diane Otto (Harold) of Wardsville, Darlene Rush (Danny) of Tuscumbia, Sharon Wilde (Henry) of St. Elizabeth, Carol Buechter (Stephen) of Wardsville, and Brenda Bax of St. Elizabeth; daughter-in-law, Debbie Bax; two sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Bax and Jane Bax; brother-in-law, Edward Bax; 25 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren with one on the way; six step-great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and numerous nieces, nephews, family, and friends.

In addition to her husband, Norbert, she was also preceded in death by one son, Donald Bax; two brothers, Herbert and William Tappehorn; three half-siblings, Leonard Boessen, Livinia Boessen, and Ludmilla Twehus.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, December 29, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church with Fr. Joby Thomas officiating. The public is welcome to attend the graveside service at St. Lawrence Cemetery in St. Elizabeth at 12 (noon) on Tuesday, December 29.

Facial masks are mandatory for everyone that will be attending the funeral mass.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Masses or the St. Elizabeth Cemetery Fund.