In Memory of Martha B. Smith
Martha B. Smith set a standard of excellence through her more than 30 years in health care at Hawaii Pacific Health (HPH). But it was her leadership approach equally focused on efficiency and compassion - that drew people to follow her. Martha was best known for her decades of service as the top executive at Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Most recently she led HPH as Executive Vice President of Oahu Operations. In this position, she served as the Chief Executive Officer of Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children, Straub Medical Center and Pali Momi Medical Center, a role she held with immense pride and dedication.
Martha’s impressive career includes countless accolades for her and Kapiolani, but her proudest moments were celebrating the children and families she loved to serve. She was driven by delivering new programs and technology that would save the lives of women and children, she was motivated by spending time at Kapiolani’s prom with patients who recovered from illnesses and injuries, and she embraced creating big check presentations for children who fundraised for Kapiolani, no matter if they raised $10 or $1,000 for the hospital.
Perhaps one of her most significant accomplishments at HPH was her leadership role in developing the Diamond Head Tower at Kapiolani. It was her vision to create the preeminent health care center for women and children in Hawaii and the Pacific and to build a space that supported family-centered care for patients, families and staff. It will be part of Martha’s considerable legacy.
Most importantly, Martha worked hard and tirelessly and expected the same from those around her. At the same time, she was extremely thoughtful and caring, always wanting the best for our patients. She is missed dearly. To see photo memories of Martha throughout her years with HPH, please click here.
Martha is survived by her husband Tony, son Ian, two grandsons, and numerous other family members.
To honor Martha, her family has requested that all contributions and gifts be made to Kapi‘olani Health Foundation.