Betty Lou Fondren Martin

Betty Lou Fondren Martin, 92, passed away on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, in Knoxville, TN, while surrounded by family. She was born to Lavert and Eva (Stacy) Fondren on September 20, 1932. She married Bobby Milton Martin on November 11, 1951 and gave him 5 children: Jerry Martin (Janie), Greg Martin (deceased), Cheryl Coggins (Thomas), Anita Nitzberg (deceased), and Tracey Berry. She was a member of Calvary Baptist Church in West Point then Blythe Creek Baptist Church in Mathiston.

She was a homemaker until 1981 when she started employment as a switchboard operator in West Point at Clay County Medical Center. She enjoyed her job and worked there until retirement age. She and Bobby retired to family land in the rural community of Reform, MS. There they enjoyed another 24 years together until his passing in 2018. As her mobility failed, she was moved to Knoxville to reside with her daughters.

Betty found joy in so many things like fishing with a cane pole, getting just one more blouse, reading, playing games and most especially spending time with her family. She was kindhearted with a dry wit. She could take a joke and would definitely get you back. She only spoke kind words, loved her church family and her faith was unwavering.

Betty is survived by her children, Jerry, Cheryl, and Tracey;1 brother, Charles Morris Fondren (Patricia); 4 grandchildren, Danielle Parrott, Doyle Coggins (Michelle), Miranda Dantes (Telmo), and Jessica Rogers (Josh); 11 great-grandchildren and 2 great great grandsons. She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Milton Martin; her parents; 1 son, Gregory Martin; 1 daughter, Anita Nitzberg; 1 grandson, Jason Nitzberg; 1 sister, Annie Sue McAdams (Billy); and 1 brother, James Lamar Fondren.

Funeral services will be held at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS on Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11:00 AM. A graveside service and burial will follow at Blythe Creek Cemetery near Mathiston, MS. Visitation will be held prior to service time from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM at Coleman Funeral Home in Ackerman, MS.