Martha Jane Nelson, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away on April 18, 2026. Born on May 6, 1960, in Oakland, California, she was the daughter of the late George Raymond Rather and Gloria Lee McCarty Rather. Martha was a woman defined by her warmth and her hands, which were always busy either baking for her community or crafting for her family. On August 9, 1986, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, David Nelson, with whom she built a beautiful life centered on faith and family.

A dedicated member of Eastview Baptist Church in Ramer, Tennessee, Martha’s faith was evident in her service to others. Many in the area knew her from her time working at Sprint Mart in Corinth, where she became a local legend for her baking. Her famous biscuits were a community staple, with friends and neighbors frequently lining up just to get a taste of her talent. When she wasn't in the kitchen, Martha was often found with a crochet hook in hand. She took great joy in gifting her handmade kitchen towels to her family; a cherished keepsake that now serves as a warm reminder of her love in every one of their homes.

Above all, Martha’s greatest joy was her family. She never missed an opportunity to hit the road if it meant seeing her grandchildren, who were the absolute light of her life. Her legacy of kindness, hard work, and devotion will be carried on by all those who were lucky enough to know her.

She is survived by her devoted husband, David Nelson; her children, daughter Renee Boswell and husband Adam of Whiteville, North Carolina, son Joe Nelson and wife Katie of Chatham, Illinois, and son Don Nelson of Ramer, Tennessee. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Paige Nelson and Parker Nelson; and her siblings, sister Sandy Peterson, brother Calvin Rather, and sisters Brenda Rather and Marguerite Rather. She was preceded in death by her parents, George Raymond Rather and Gloria Lee McCarty Rather.