Narda Rignault Martin

Narda Rignault Martin, 56, of Spring, Texas was called to her heavenly home way too early on January 23, 2019.  Narda fought a long and valiant battle with cancer, was surrounded by her family at the end, and is free now.  She will be forever remembered and missed by family and friends, and a life so beautifully lived deserves to be remembered with happiness.

Narda is survived by her husband Phil Martin, and their four amazing boys, Sean (and wife Stephanie), Jake, Luke, and Hays Martin; along with her children of the heart, Lauren Stutes (and finance Lance DeHart), Natalie Veillon (and husband Brandon), Jane Stutes, and Jack Martin; grandchildren Emma, Ava, Aiden, Mason, Sophia, Hunter, William, Adrien; siblings Lori Parker, Lisette Henderson, and Kyle Rignault; beloved uncle Louis Magne, and parents, David and Vida Rignault. Narda's greatest joys in life were her husband, children, grandchildren, and numerous friends.  Her favorite gift was always family time spent together.

Narda was born January 13, 1963, in Port of Spain, Trinidad to David and Vida Rignault.  Narda left Trinidad at 4 and lived in Nigeria, Libya, Iran and Venezuela during her father's work in the oilfield.  At 12 she was sent to boarding school at Pine Crest in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.  She was able to rejoin her family when they moved stateside to Lafayette, LA.  While there she attended Acadiana High and the University of Louisiana

Narda met Phil, the love of her life, on a blind date in Lafayette.  There was an instant spark of romance and the two were married two months later on April 12, 1984 in Acapulco, Mexico.  Their honeymoon continued happily over the next 35 years.  Not only did Narda gain a husband, but she became "instant" mom to four young children.  She embraced her role as second mom fully, always including Phil's children, and loving them as her own.  There were no "half" siblings in Narda's family, just brothers and sisters.  All that could come were included whether it was a ski or diving trip, or junket to Europe.

Narda and Phil lived in Los Angeles, CA when their first two sons, Sean and Jake were born.  After eight exciting years in LA, they wanted to raise their kids in the south and moved to Spring, TX.  Their second two sons, Luke and Hays (now 14) were born there and the Martins could now brag about their Texas roots.  Narda had a warm and active role in all her children's lives, including their activities at Northland Christian School, Faithbridge, college, soccer, and more. Some of the best holiday occasions were Christmas parties at Mark and Becky Lanier's estate.

Narda was creative and loved a good challenge. She was always working on a new project, and included her children in every way she could...artwork, family ranch activities, pottery (Potters Wheel of course), home landscaping, refinishing furniture, fishing trips, etc.  Her last project was an elevator for the family home.  She was also deeply involved in her kids' sports events, being team mom, arranging a soccer trip to Spain, and more.  She was the family event coordinator, navigator, vacation planner, and tour guide. Some of her favorite places included Italy, New York, Disney, the family ranch in Brenham and especially a family home at Mountain Lake Colony in the mountains of South Carolina.  Her love of nature and everything beautiful was evident in the care she took with her garden and her home.  Narda was a master chef and always got excited about trying new recipes.  She cooked from the heart and was known for her superb gumbo, Crème Brûlée, and many other dishes.

Narda is well known and respected in the Spring community for the lives she affected and uplifted.  Her compassion and generosity of spirit touched so many.  Narda was always willing to open her home and heart to others, whether that be to sponsor an event in her home or offer sage advice.  She remained in the lives of loved ones, whether friends or family living in other states or countries, by daily phone calls, internet or in person.  She loved to swap life stories, recipes, creative project ideas, laughter and joy, as well as stories of motherhood and life celebrations.  She always said travel was the one expense that made you richer.  Her love of nature and everything beautiful was evident in the care she took with her garden and her home.

Narda had a vibrant business and community life as Chief Financial Officer of New Century Exploration and CEO of True Electric.  She served on the boards of Pearl Fincher Museum, Foundation for Arts and Community Enrichment (FACE), Shining Stars Guild, and Texas Repertory, and was active in the Alley Theatre, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, Fête du Bordeaux, and Les Amis d'Escoffier.

Narda was considered by many to be "a force of nature," strong, courageous, independent and able to speak her mind honestly.  She had an indomitable spirit.  She is remembered for "living lavishly" in terms of her generosity, her unique style and flair, and her love of her family and friends.  She will be forever remembered for her elegant nature, joyous attitude, zest for life and contagious smile.  She leaves behind countless fond memories of holiday gatherings, outdoor adventure, and new places explored.  She was truly a blessing to those around her and will be missed dearly.  Many of those close to her have committed to improving their lives and the way they treat others in the spirit that Narda lived her life.

There is a new star in the sky, a new angel in heaven, and Narda continues to light up the world - Love leaves behind so much more than death can take away.