Martha Sodetani, longtime Downey civic leader, dies unexpectedly

DOWNEY — Longtime Downey civic leader and former Downey Unified School District board member Martha Sodetani died unexpectedly Thursday, Sept. 3.

Details surrounding her death were not immediately available.

Sodetani was a prominent figure in Downey for decades, serving more than 17 years on the Downey Unified Board of Education and volunteering extensively with local organizations, including PTA, PTA HELPS, Gangs Out of Downey, Assistance League of Downey and the Downey Coordinating Council.

A longtime advocate for children, Sodetani also fostered more than 10 children, including medically fragile babies, and adopted three. In 2024, Community Family Guidance Center honored her with its Protector of Children Award in recognition of her service to young people.

Downey Mayor Claudia M. Frometa issued the following statement:

“There are some losses that are difficult to put into words, and the sudden passing of my dear friend Martha Sodetani is one of them.

Today, I mourn not only a beloved community leader and former Downey Unified School Board member, but someone who was much more personal to me—a dear friend whose kindness, warmth, wisdom, and friendship meant so much to me.

Martha dedicated herself to Downey and to its children and families. Through her service on the Downey Unified School Board and through the countless ways she gave of herself to our community, she helped make Downey a better place. But those of us who knew Martha personally knew that her greatest gift was the person she was. She cared deeply. She listened. She encouraged. And she had a beautiful way of making people feel that they mattered.

As Mayor, I have had the privilege of working alongside so many extraordinary people who have helped shape our city. As a friend, I feel especially blessed that Martha was part of my life.

I will miss her tremendously—the conversations, her warmth, her laughter, and simply knowing she was there.

Downey has lost a dedicated servant and a treasured member of our community. I have lost a dear friend.”

The Downey Patriot will provide additional information as it becomes available.