Born February 28, 1928 in Athens, Alabama, she was the daughter of Horace and Jessie Ezell. Their family later moved to Weiner, Arkansas, where she graduated high school. She met her husband, Robert Louis Neal, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. They remained married for 54 years, until his death in 2016. She was a loving wife, mother, and friend who devoted her life to others. She was a long time member of East Shelby Church of Christ and was an inspiration to many. She always led by example. She had a strong faith in God that compelled her to continue to teach his will by organizing bible studies wherever life led her.
Martha was all about family and was the consummate housewife, mother and her favorite title of all, grandmother, aka “Nanny”. She loved to have everyone over and cook large family meals. Holidays were her favorite. She loved to spoil her grandkids, but she loved all children and was the adopted church “Nanny” to many. She was always good for a comforting word, a piece of candy and encouragement to quit squirming and listen to the preacher. She will be missed by all.
Martha is survived by her son, Rob Neal (Michele); daughter Cyndi Madere (Earl); and four grandchildren, Lauren Perry (Austin), Ali Hahn (Peter), Abigail Neal, and RJ Neal. She is also survived by her sister, Sarah Springer (Buck). She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Louis Neal, and her brothers, James and Winston Ezell.
Graveside Funeral Services will be held Saturday, January 2, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Memorial Park Cemetery located at 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, Tennessee, observing COVID protocols. The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks and gratitude to The Village at Primacy Parkway, Avalon Hospice, and her caregiver Millicent Mabone for the exceptional care and kindness they all extended to Martha and her family.
In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to SacredSelections.org or MidSouthFoodBank.org.
