Martha Jo Ilagan

Martha Jo Sarvis Ilagan, 78 of Goose Creek, South Carolina, passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025. 

Born on January 30, 1947, in Mullins, SC, Martha was a daughter of the late Eunice C. Carroll and Robert Sarvis. 

She attended Chicora High School and Trident Technical College. Martha was married to Cesar O. Ilagan from 1962 to 1978 and traveled around the world with him throughout his US Navy career.

Throughout her life, Martha enjoyed floral and interior design. When her children were school-aged, and before her disabilities fully developed, she worked in flower shops arranging flowers. When her sons were in local colleges, she was known to cook amazing Sunday meals for them and their friends. She was also known for her sense of humor and wit. She wanted nothing more than for those around her to feel comfortable. She had immense love and fondness for children, especially her own children, grandchildren, great-grandson, nieces, and nephews.

Martha is survived by her sons, Dr. Daniel Ilagan (Joan) and Dr. Guy Ilagan (Jill); daughter April Joy Sineath (Drew); 6 granddaughters: Isabella Ilagan (Matthew), Grace Ilagan, Ellie Sineath, Amanda Joy Ilagan, Charlotte Ilagan and Nora Sineath; and great-grandson, Royce McCrackin. She leaves behind her dear sisters and brother, Gloria Sarvis Legare (Daniel), Doris Sarvis Davis (Larry), and Bobby M. Sarvis (Melinda).

The family will receive friends on Friday, December 12, 2025 for a Celebration of Life at 3:00 PM at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home in Goose Creek. Guests are encouraged to wear bright colors. The family invites you to join them afterwards at the home of April and Drew Sineath.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com/. 

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral & Cremation, 869 St. James Avenue, Goose Creek, SC 29445, (843) 553-1511.