Martha was born August 19, 1929 in Columbus, Georgia; the daughter of Walter Holmes and Ida Mae Holmes. Martha was raised in Columbus, Georgia and graduated from Jordan Vocational High School in 1947. After high school, Martha went on to attend Columbus College where she received her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education. At the time, Columbus College only offered two-year programs, so Martha commuted to Auburn University to obtain her Bachelor's Degree. After obtaining her Bachelor's, Martha attended Georgia State University, where she worked diligently to earn her Master's and Specialist Degree in Early Childhood Education. Martha married the love of her life, James P. Taylor, Sr. and the two remained married for 34 years, until his passing.
Martha was an elementary school teacher for the Muscogee County School District, where she retired from with thirty years of faithful service. From a young age, Martha appreciated music, especially hymns, some of which she sang on the radio in her youth and at church. Martha also enjoyed playing hymns on the piano at her home. She was a devoted member of Evangel Church in Columbus.
Martha is preceded in death by her husband, James P. Taylor, Sr.
She is survived by her son, James "Pete" Taylor; her daughter, Pamela Taylor Tovey (Harold Dwain Tovey); her grandchildren, Darrick Dwain Tovey (Heather), Harold Dean Tovey (Jennifer), Erica Dawn Taylor; and her great-grandchildren, Kate Tovey and Averi Gavin Morton (Colt).
A Visitation for the Family and Friends for Martha will be held Friday, March 21, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia, followed by a Funeral Service at 2:00 PM. Martha will be laid to rest in Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Rd, Columbus, Georgia 31907.
