Bettye Jo Luranie James Martin, 80, died Thursday, December 1, 2011. Wife of the late Rev. Davis Y. Martin, Bettye was a devoted mother, loving wife, and gifted teacher. She was born in Lawley, Alabama and raised in Bibb County. After attending Alabama College (now the University of Motevallo), she went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Alabama and a master’s degree from Auburn University at Montgomery. She taught elementary school in Atmore, Citronelle, Montgomery, Flomation, and Luverne. Until recently, she was also active in the United Methodist Church. Bettye is survived by three children; Robert C. (Lynn) Martin of Montgomery, Lois Martin of Birmingham, and Jaime (Charles) Tatom of Wetumpka; four grandchildren; Tori (Michael) Blair of Deatsville, Davis Martin of Montgomery, Laura and Zack Tatom both of Wetumpka; and two great grandchildren; Ben and Evan Blair of Deatsville. Visitation will begin at 1:30pm Tuesday, December 6, 2011 at Whitfield Memorial United Methodist Church with the service beginning at 2pm, followed by interment at Greenwood Cemetery. White Chapel Funeral is in charge of arrangements.
