Martha J. Wilson

Martha Jean Wilson of Alpharetta died peacefully at her home surrounded by her children on August 28, 2008. Martha Jean was born on August 24, 1928, in Silver Creek, Mississippi. She was a 1950 graduate of Mississippi College, studying English, Botany, and Music. After graduation she taught elementary school for a year in New Albany, MS, and after she was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and cared for those who were often overlooked by others. Martha Jean met Roland Wilson at Mississippi College where they both flourished, and after marriage in 1950, they lived together in New Albany, MS; Memphis, TN; Atlanta, GA; and Chicago, IL. They retired to Atlanta, GA in 1989. Martha Jean was an advocate for children. She taught and played the piano in children’s Sunday School and frequently chose to eat at the children’s table at family gatherings. She welcomed, encouraged, and believed in all children, beginning with her own and stretching to others. Martha Jean was playful and serious at the same time. She had a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. When, in her last days, she suffered with a debilitating disease, she bore it with humor and hope. She shared these days and her humor with friend Beverly Lawley of Alpharetta, GA, who cared for her gently and brought great joy to her life. Martha Jean, known by her grandchildren as J.J., was preceded in death by her husband Roland; her parents Lee and Nancy Allen May; her brother Lindell May, and her sister Margaret Maddux. She leaves behind children Dawn Eberhard of Raleigh, NC; Jim and Gwen Wilson of Macon, GA; Stan and Jennifer Wilson of Clinton, MS; grandchildren John and Pattie Eberhard, Dan and Laura Eberhard, Reid Wilson, Albert and Kaiser Swan, and Jane and Kate Wilson; great-granddaughter, Allie Dawn Eberhard; brothers Phillip and Wayne May; and dozens of grateful nieces, nephews, and friends. A memorial service will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 31, at Dunwoody Baptist Church, preceded by visitation at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to Dunwoody Baptist Church, 1445 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody, GA, 30338. Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory, Roswell 770-645-1414. www.northsidechapel.com

Martha J. Wilson

August 24, 1928 - August 27, 2008