Bertha V. (Smith) Martin

Evangelist Mother Martin was born on March 24, 1930, in Cayce, South Carolina, a daughter of the late Willie and Luella Smith. Mother Martin passed away peacefully in her sleep, entering into eternal rest after a brief illness on Thursday August 30, 2021 at the young age of 91.

She received Christ at an early age and for over 68 years served as an unwavering pillar of Morning Star Church of God In Christ.  Mother Martin was a very devoted Soldier of God, always about her Fathers business. She actively served as Mother of the Church, Chairman of the Missionary Department, Member of the Pastor Aide, Sanctuary Choir,  Usher Board and the Church Custodian until her health prevented her from participating.

Mother Martin was a well-dressed woman and loved to showcase her stylish  hats.  She was a highly respected woman in her community and everywhere else God deemed her to be.  She excitingly looked forward to the Lords Day Dinner, where she proudly volunteered her services twice a year, contributing to its overall success.

If you knew Mother Martin, then you know that she loved fishing and her favorite song was "Just Another Day That The Lord Has Kept Me".  More often than not, you could vast her home, find her comfortably sitting on her sofa, smiling, humming the songs melody; absolutely basking in the glory of God.  

Mother Matin was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, William Martin Sr; daughter Edith Bedgood & son Philip I Martin Sr.

She is survived by two sons and 1 daughter-in-law, William Martin (Barbara) of Niagara Falls, Cleave Martin of Niagara Falls; seven daughters and 2 sons-in-law, Margaret Jackson of Lockport, Yvonne Davis (Matthew) of Niagara Falls, Juanita Ewing of Niagara Falls, Dolly Averhart of Niagara Falls, Esther Freeman Rice (Eric) of North Carolina, Virginia Boston of Florida, Mariah Martin Robinson of Niagara Falls; one adopted daughter Gloria Rose of Niagara Falls, 36 grandchildren; 110 great grandchildren, 40 great great grand children. She will be missed by family and numerous friends.

Visitation will be on Friday, September 10th at Morning Star COGIC, 2903 21st Street, from 6-8 p.m. and on Saturday, September 11th at Covenant of Grace Fellowship International Church, 2351 Whirlpool Street, from 11 a.m. until 12 p.m.  Mother Martin’s funeral service and life celebration will begin at 12 p.m. following visitation at Covenant.  Prayers of committal and interment in Acacia Park Cemetery.  Professional arrangements are under the care of the Goodlander family, OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY (716-297-9007).  Share condolences at GOODLANDERCARES.com

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