Ms. Martha Mae Griggs, of the Oleander community of Union Grove, Alabama passed away at her home Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at the age of 82. Martha was born December 3, 1942 in Marshall County, AL. Her parents were William Barrett and Betsy King Barrett. She was married to James “Jim” Griggs who passed away in 2017 (married 59 ½ years). Martha was an active member of Oleander Methodist Church.
Martha was petite physically, but her heart was huge. Not only did Martha care for her family, but she cared for everyone. In her earlier years she frequently volunteered at local schools helping in any way she could. She babysat young children while their parents worked and could be found most Friday evenings at the nursing homes visiting and playing bingo with the residents.
Martha has always felt the need to encourage and support those around her. One way she showed her compassion and encouragement was by sending greeting cards. Martha loved being outside gardening, maintaining her flowers beds, feeding birds, and enjoying her many pets. She willingly accepted the responsibility of maintaining the cemetery and grounds of Oleander Church, which she loved. She spent her leisure time providing for her family and reading her Bible. She was a woman of strong faith and believed in the power of prayer. She spent several hours a day reading her Bible and praying for others. Martha will be missed by all.
Family members cherishing their memories of Martha include her sons, William Lee Griggs (Denise) and J. Griggs; daughters, Cathy McGaha (T.J.) and Sharon Thrasher; grandchildren, Jessica Moore (Ricky), Chris Griggs (Ashley), Chris Powers (Toni), Paul Powers (Sunda); Caleb Thrasher (Kimberly); ten great grandchildren; and brothers, Clyde Barrett (Charlotte) and Buddy Barrett.
Martha is preceded in death by her husband, Jim Griggs; parents, William and Betsy Barrett; grandson, Jeremy Griggs; and several brothers and sisters.
Funeral services for Martha will be Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m at which time the funeral service will begin. Brother Gary McRae will officiate. Martha will be laid to rest in the Oleander Cemetery. The pallbearers are: Caleb Thrasher, William Griggs, Dakota Bonner, Paul Powers, Chris Powers, Kaden Reaves and Lee McBride. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel, directing
