NATCHEZ — Mary Emily Lamar Martin, 102, of Natchez, died Monday, March 5, 2012, in Natchez where she was a longtime resident.

Mrs. Martin was born Sept. 14, 1909, in Crystal Springs. Until his death, she was married to B.W. Martin, a local architect.

As well as her husband, Mary Emily was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. S.C. Lamar of Crystal Springs and all eight of her siblings.

At one time she taught English and was employed as a field director of the Girl Scouts of America. An alumni of Belhaven College in Jackson, she graduated valedictorian. She pursued graduate studies at Tulane University in New Orleans. Mary Emily Lamar Martin was a published, award winning poet, her works appearing in numerous early journals.

Mary Emily was an elder and Bible teacher in the First Presbyterian Church in Natchez and served there as past president of the Women of the Church and an emeritus member of the church. Additionally, she was an emeritus member of the Natchez Garden Club, Progressive Study Club, Friends of Library, League of Women Voters and staunch advocate of the Humane Society.

Mary Emily is survived by her daughter, Lucy Martin Fair and grandchildren, Stacy Roberts Caruso and Martin James Roberts, as well as two great-grandchildren, Martin J. Roberts Jr. and Wesley Vaughn Roberts; and a number of nieces and nephews.

She has donated her body to medical science at a facility in Jackson. Friends who wish to remember her may do so in a contribution to First Presbyterian Church, The Humane Society or charity of choice.

The family respectfully requests that there be no visitation at her residence, as they are in private mourning.

A memorial service will be at the First Presbyterian Church in Natchez and will be announced at a later date.