Martha Katherine "Marti" Jahnke

Martha”Marti” Jahnke, 50, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2014 after a long battle with cancer. Born in Sacramento, CA she traveled to several states before settling in Petal, MS. A 1982 graduate of Petal High School, Marti played on many sports teams and upon graduation she received a softball scholarship to junior college. She went on to continue her athletic career at USM and graduated in 1986 with a degree in Criminal Justice. After college, she was accepted into the Hattiesburg police department where she served as a decorated officer for 10 years. In 1998, driven by her love of service and protection to her community, Marti joined the United States Secret Service. During her 16 year tenure with the service, she worked in many capacities most notable was the four years she was assigned to the Presidential Protection Detail for George W. Bush and his family. As a USSS agent she traveled the world protecting heads of state and other national and international leaders. Her dream was to one day to return to Mississippi where she could be close to the things she loved most…family, friends and the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Her dream came true when she was assigned to the USSS domicile of Gulfport, MS. Her passion for her job was reflected her success as an officer and special agent, the respect paid to her by her colleagues and her determination to be on the job even until the very end of her battle with cancer. Of all her accomplishments in her life time, Marti will be most remembered for her contagious smile, zest of life and generous spirit. Everyone she met fell in love with her joyous spirit and boundless energy. She touched many and will be forever missed by those who knew and loved her. Marti is preceded in death by her parents James Edward Jahnke and Margaret Urbaniak Jahnke. She is survived by her brother Karl Daniel Jahnke, III and close friend and care taker, Linda Emmel. Visitation will be Thursday, December 11, 2014 from 1-3:00 pm and services will follow at First United Methodist Church on 15th street in Gulfport. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, 417 Security Square, Gulfport, MS 39507.Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15th Street, Gulfport is in charge of arrangements. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com.