She was born on March 10, 1933 in Greenwood, SC to James Hyatt Shelley and Kathleen Gribble Shelley. Martha grew up in Lake Helen, FL and was of the methodist faith. She graduated from Pfeiffer College and moved to Winston-Salem. Martha was employed by Western Electric, where she met, and later married, the love of her life, Frederick S. O’Brien. Martha later enjoyed a career as a kindergarten aide with Forsyth County Schools. She loved those children as if they were her own.
Martha enjoyed many hobbies, including crafting and decorating. She especially enjoyed decorating for the holidays and preparing delicious Sunday dinners for the whole family.
Her family was her greatest treasure in life. Martha was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, and sister. She was a beautiful example of unconditional love. No matter how difficult life became at times, her favorite quote was, “All is well.”
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Kathleen Shelley; brother, James Shelley; and her beloved husband, Frederick S. O’Brien. Martha leaves behind to cherish her memory her twin sister, Mary Evans of Deland, FL; 3 children, Patrick O’Brien of Winston-Salem, Michael O’Brien (Lori Scott) of Lewisville, and Kathleen O’Brien and husband, Tim Moorefield, of Lewisville; 3 grandchildren, Chase O’Brien and wife, Hannah, Jason O’Brien and wife, Jamie, and Whitnie O’Brien (Alex Holly); 3 great-grandchildren, Jayden, Lukas, and Harper; brother-in-law, Jack O’Brien; and many other loved ones.
The family wishes to express our sincerest gratitude to the staff members of Carillon Assisted Living of Clemmons and Clemmons Village II Assisted living for the loving care of our mother in her final months. We will always hold a special place in our hearts for you.
Visitation will be held at Frank Vogler & Sons Funeral Home in Clemmons, 2849 Middlebrook Dr, on Wednesday, October 3rd from 6-8pm. A private graveside service will take place at a later date.
