Martha Sue Hughes Gilbreath, 77, of Fort Payne, passed away Thursday, August 15, 2024, at her home. She was born in DeKalb County, Alabama on February 22, 1947 to the late William Clarence Tony Hughes and Mae Walker Hughes.
Jimmy saw Martha for the first time as a boy at a church singing on Lookout Mountain. He caught her eye that day and she told her friend “that’s the guy I’m going to marry!” Several years later, they each found themselves in the high school chorus and were sweethearts from there on. Music brought them together and music has carried them through life’s journey.
She was a member of Mt. Tabor Baptist Church where she served as church pianist for a time. Martha had a lovely alto voice and enjoyed singing with the JoyBelles. When she lived in Dalton, Georgia, she served as church organist at Calvary Baptist and Mt. Rachel Baptist, while her husband Jimmy led the singing and sang in the choir.
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Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Sunday at Wilson Funeral Home with Rev. Brian Harris officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Herman Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 12 noon until the 3 p.m. hour of service.
She is survived by her husband of over 59 years Jimmy Gilbreath; grandchildren Danielle Lowrey and Anthony Flores; great-grandchildren Amilia, Leland, and Makalia Lowrey.
She was preceded in death by her daughter Lisa Flores.
Wilson Funeral Home and Crematory of Fort Payne is in charge of arrangements.
