Martha M. Hammer

Martha Lynn Marshall Hammer, widow of the late William "Bill" Curtis Hammer, peacefully passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at Royal Care at Birch Ridge Assisted Living in Staunton. 

She was born on October 23, 1930, in Blue Grass to the late James Newman and Geneva Mae Wilfong Marshall.

Martha's loving and caring nature extended beyond her role as a homemaker. She possessed a genuine affection for animals and took great pleasure in watching dog shows and horse shows. Her enthusiasm for these events exemplified her appreciation for beauty and grace.

During her youth, Martha excelled in basketball at her alma mater, Blue Grass High School, and gained recognition as the "Flying Marshall." Her skill and dedication made her a formidable presence on the court, leaving a lasting impression on all who saw her play.

She was a member of the Blue Grass Central United Methodist Church.

In addition to her parents and her loving husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, James H. and Everett W. Marshall; and her sister, Rebecca F. Marshall Eckard.

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Hammer Caywood, and her husband, David; a special sister-in-law, Lois Marshall; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, July 19, 2023 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Henry Funeral Home. A funeral service commemorating Martha's life will follow the visitation at the same location beginning at 2:00 PM with the Reverend Andre Crummett officiating. Interment will follow at Augusta Memorial Park.

Active pallbearers will be James H. Marshall, Jr., Daniel Marshall, and Steven R. Marshall, Ron Engleman, Ed Talley, and Jim Plecker.

It is suggested that those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Blue Grass Central United Methodist Church (PO Box 29, Blue Grass, VA 24413) or the Augusta Regional SPCA (P.O. Box 2014, Staunton, VA 24402).