Martha Patterson Edfeldt was born July 1, 1924 in Ensley, Alabama to Alexander and Maude Southard Patterson. She was the youngest of five children, one of whom died at an early age. Martha graduated from Howard College, now known as Samford University with a degree In Home Economics. She married her sweetheart, Ralph Edfeldt, on February 12, 1944 after a few changes in dates due to the war and Ralph’s naval responsibilities.
Martha was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Alexander and Hubert, and sister, Ruth, and her grandson, Jacob Blackburn Edfeldt. She is survived by her husband, Ralph; her daughter, Joy Moore (Michael), son, David Edfeldt (Bonnie) and son, Richard Edfeldt (Karen); six grandchildren, Lee Moore Marlow (Tyler), Amanda Moore Blasczcynski (Vince) and Joseph Moore (Ann-Marie); Katie Guice (Andy), Ben Edfeldt (Beth); Brook Holsbeke (Mick); 12 great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and other extended family.
Martha was a homemaker as they held residences in Birmingham, Montgomery, Jackson, MS, and Orlando, FL. In 1960, when all her children were in school, she accepted a secretarial position at First Baptist Church in Orlando where she was employed for 25 years. She stayed busy teaching Sunday School, being a scout leader, singing in choirs and supporting everything her husband and children were involved in.
After retirement, Martha and Ralph were leaders in the Florida Campers on Mission groups and served with the North American Mission Board, headquartered in Alpharetta, GA. They were active in mission projects throughout the United States. They had a passion for serving, caring, encouraging others.
Moving to Huntsville in 2002, they immediately became involved in the local First Baptist Church and sang in the Hallelujah choir, volunteered on several committees including letter writing, Fellowship Club and continued to encourage others.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday at First Baptist Church in the Upper Gathering Place. A celebration of life will follow at 12 p.m. in the church chapel with the Rev. Mark Seanor officiating. A private family burial will be held earlier.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Mosaic Missions Fund at First Baptist Church, 600 Governors Drive, Huntsville, AL 35801, or a favorite charity.
