Martha was born on December 16, 1916, in Bailey, NC to Van and Martha Wilkins Adams and departed this life on Monday, October 31, 2016, at the Rainey Hospice House, Anderson, SC.

Martha will be sorrowfully missed by her children and siblings. She is survived by two daughter, Freda English (larry) and Theresa Tate; son, Alfonso Joy; three sisters, Sylvia, Willa Bea, Pennie and brother, Albert (Mildred). She also leaves to cherish fond memories, grandchildren, Robbin Gay, Louis Gay, Keyona Tate, Antoine English, and Alfonso Joy Jr.; great- grandchildren, Chris,Colby, Capri; and great-great-grandson, Kedarious Tate. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Martha was preceded in death by her companion, Neal H. Rustin, parents and daughter, Louise Gay.