PAIGE A. MARTIN, Nov. 27, 1951 - July 17, 2009

I am deeply saddened to report of the passing of Paige A. Martin— although I'm sure she is floating with the Angels right about now. Paige Martin was a woman with a big heart and a strong ethic. She defended others against very powerful entities — including yours truly— and she often won. Win or lose, though, she always fought for others to the best of her abilities.

She and I shared a genuine interest in — and love for Indian peoples. Part of Paige's volunteer work with native people took her to help aboriginal tribes in Australia, but she also had regular meetings with Indian leaders stateside as well, and was passionately committed to helping Indian children whenever she could. This endeared me to her — because it showed where her heart truly was — and it was authentic indeed.

Paige could be ornery or cranky, but even then, you just knew that she was striving for "zen."

I'll never forget during a private deposition that she tried her best to be a peacemaker, but when that failed she quickly landed “punch after punch” on the person across the table. The person was so flustered that she had her attorney request a five minute recess, which was granted.

“I don't like being jerked around,” she said energetically. “So I had to nail their asses.” We both laughed heartily. When we walked back into the room, the inquisitor was calm and completely focused. The other person — not so much.

Paige A. Martin was not motivated by money, as many of her peers are. She was motivated by justice for the underdog FIRST... helping others, visioning... and then money. This, in my opinion, is a highly dignified way to live one's life... even though others may laugh at the notion. I must believe Paige has been embraced by God, because for all of her faults, it's clear that this woman was indeed a woman sent by God in the first place.

She was a founder of the Learning Center for Human Development, a nonprofit international organization which assisted people in their personal and professional growth. The organization was also dedicated to creating environmental awareness, their oneness with the Earth, and in their relationship to the global community at large. In 1987 she received the Outstanding Young American Woman Award and in 1991-1998 she was featured in Who’s Who in American Law.

I am grateful to have known her and for her counsel. May all attorneys strive to be as ethical as Paige — and may we all show some of her courage — and stand tall — in these dangerous times.

Truth be told, she dedicated her life and work to assisting others less fortunate — and May God Bless her richly for that.

Paige A. Martin was 57. She is at peace.