Mrs. Martha Lucille Heath James died peacefully in her happy place, “Starve Easy”, at Smith Beach Oct. 11, 2019, in Eastville, at the age of 73.
Mrs. James is survived by her husband, Levin Smith James Jr.; children, Charles (Jennifer), Michael (Emily), Angela, Chuck, and Suzannah; her “sister” Claudia (Frank); and grandchildren, Hannah, Ava, Katherine, Zachary, Joshua, Jada, and Jaquan. She is preceded in death by her parents, Charles “Hefty” and Lucille Heath, of Smith Beach.
Mrs. James was born Feb. 12, 1946, in Nassawadox. She graduated from Northampton High School in 1964. Mrs. James married her high school sweetheart, Smith, June 21, 1986, thus joining their families as one. She had a long career in banking, retiring as branch manager and associate vice president from Shore Bank in 2009.
Mrs. James was a member of Franktown UMC holding numerous leadership roles including chairwoman of the board, lay leader, and past, present and longtime treasurer of UMW. She was also a key early member of the Emmaus community on the Eastern Shore. She was a vital member of the Exmore Rotary Club holding several positions including president, vice president and treasurer.
Her friends and family remember her as a loving soul who walked with God and gave her whole heart to all who crossed her path.
A funeral service was held Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019, at Franktown UMC with the Rev. Rachel G. May officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the United Methodist Women of Franktown UMC, 7551 Bayside Road, Franktown, VA 23354. The family would like to thank Robbin Smith and Cathy Harmon for their loving care in her final days.
Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.foxfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements were made by Fox Funeral Home, Temperanceville.
