Martha Carolyn Swanson Sundquist, former First Lady of Tennessee, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, in Collierville, Tennessee, at the age of 88. Her passing marks the end of a life dedicated to public service, community engagement, and a deep commitment to the betterment of the state she cherished. She was widely recognized for her grace, kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family and the people of Tennessee.

Born Martha Carolyn Swanson on October 10, 1937, in Joliet, Illinois, she spent her formative years in Lemont, Illinois. She pursued higher education at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, where she graduated in 1959. It was during her time at Augustana that she met Don Sundquist, whom she married in 1959, beginning a partnership that would span 64 years and lead them to significant roles in public life.

Mrs. Sundquist served as the First Lady of Tennessee from 1995 to 2003, during her husband Don Sundquist's two terms as governor. In this role, she brought her personal touch to the Governor's Residence, overseeing redecorations and actively engaging with the public. She was known for her initiatives, including promoting the beautification of interstate highways with wildflowers and hosting the annual Easter Egg Roll for children, fostering a welcoming environment for all Tennesseans.

Her commitment to service extended beyond her official duties. Martha Sundquist was an honorary chairperson for numerous historical and social organizations, including the National Advisory Council for Andrew Jackson's The Hermitage, Tennessee Parks and Greenways, Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs, Tennessee Looks Good to Me, and the Tennessee Commission on National and Community Service. She also actively supported Governor Sundquist's "Shots-for-Tots" immunization program, demonstrating her dedication to the health and well-being of the state's youngest residents.

In recognition of her profound impact and dedication to conservation, the Martha Sundquist State Forest in Cocke County was named in her honor. This tribute stands as a lasting testament to her love for nature and her efforts to preserve Tennessee's natural beauty. She also received a notable appointment by President Ronald Reagan in 1989, serving a three-year term on the USO Board of Governors, an experience she often reflected on with humility and pride.

Beyond her public life, Martha Sundquist cherished her roles as a wife, mother, and grandmother, affectionately known as MorMor. She found joy in golf, gardening, and jigsaw puzzles, and was known for always having a song for any occasion. She is survived by her children, Tania Williamson, Andrea Jeannet, and Donald Kenneth Sundquist Jr., and her beloved granddaughters, Gabby Jeannet and Alex Jeannet, along with a large extended family. Her legacy of kindness, service, and love for Tennessee will be deeply missed by all who knew her.