Hello,

My name is RaSheda and I’m creating this GoFundMe in support of a beloved and cherished friend, Natalie Martin.

Natalie was an incredible woman who was rooted in her faith and trust in the Lord. She was the embodiment of joy, and left a positive impact on every person that she encountered. Natalie encouraged those closest to her to walk through life with love for others leading the way, and she was truly an example of that in every way.

Natalie’s first passion was teaching, as she was actively serving and guiding students for 8 years in Plano ISD. As a student who grew up in Plano herself, she often talked about how important and special it was to give back to the community that raised her. What’s more, Natalie actively served in student ministry at Watermark Church in Dallas, sharing that “student ministry is a joy, and life in Christ is a joy”.

In 2022, Natalie met the love of her life, Aaron. She shared with friends that what she loved most about Aaron is how supportive, loving, encouraging, and calming he is. They shared an adventurous love story, with Christ leading the way through their journey. The two married in 2024 and were elated to be expecting their first child, baby Parker, in March of 2026. Natalie always knew she wanted children, and felt so much joy being able to embark on the journey of motherhood!

Just one month away from her dreams becoming reality, Natalie unexpectedly experienced complications that led to an early birth for Parker, and her return to be with the Lord in heaven a few hours later.

The Martin and Peña family are left feeling such a wide range of emotions as they deal with the incomprehensible grief surrounding Natalie’s passing and Parker’s healthy beginning. He is healthy, strong, and already a source of so much joy!

We ask for your consideration to share this message and provide support for Parker’s future.

Any funds earned will be given directly to Aaron, Natalie’s husband, as the beneficiary on baby Parker’s behalf.

We also ask for your prayers, as we lean into the desire for peace from God for Natalie’s loved ones, which surpasses all understanding.