Martha Kate Manning

Martha Manning Martha Kate Geiger was born in Adairsville, Georgia, in a home at the foot of a peach orchard, perhaps the beginning of her love for the earth and things that grow. At a young age she moved with her family to Powder Springs, where she lived most of her 91 years. As the daughter of a cotton farmer, Martha spent her days mostly at home, helping with the animals, kitchen garden, and even working alongside her father and brothers in the field. Although spring was always her favorite season, she loved harvest time almost as much. One of the fondest memories she shared was of riding the wagon full of cotton to the gin. And, of course, she spent many hours in the kitchen with her mother “putting up” vegetables for winter. Adulthood and modern conveniences brought many changes, but Martha never lost her joy in growing things. Even after the days of farming had passed, she maintained a healthy garden and was known for her beautiful gladiolas and zinnias, among other flowers. She passed these traditions down to her children and grandchildren, teaching them the patience of the planting and the satisfaction of the fruits. Martha also loved people; and, made her first life-long friend at the age of three. She made more friends at school, attending the old Powder Springs School, and later graduating from McEachern High School, Class of 1944. After graduation, she worked at Coats & Clark, in Austell, but soon married and started a family. Her biography could stop there, as this became her life’s work. “Family” is the word that sums up Martha’s life best, for that was most important to her. Widowed three times, she raised four daughters virtually on her own. Even so, she was always present, and had great impact on them as well as her nine grandchildren. Her influence will carry to future generations, and already has touched her great- and great-great grandchildren. The heart of that legacy is Martha’s uncompromising faith. In her early childhood, Martha attended the Primitive Baptist Church in Powder Springs. She later joined First Baptist Church Powder Springs, where she was an active member for many years. During a life that spanned 1927 – 2018, Martha saw too many changes to count: transportation, technology, agriculture, pop culture, music, and fashion. In her 91 years she lived through many historical events: The Great Depression, three major wars, including World War II, the death of a president, and civil unrest. She suffered much personal hardship: loss of parents, siblings, friends, and even a daughter. However, in the midst of an unsteady world and her own heartbreak, her faith remained undaunted, her strength remained sure, and her heart remained open. Although reserved in her deepest emotions, Martha always had a ready smile; and, perhaps more importantly, a helping hand to offer. No matter what she was facing, or may have lacked herself, she shared what she had without hesitation. Martha’s stalwart strength and unfailing generosity, both given to her by God, create a legacy that will be cherished by all who remember her. Martha is survived by: Three Daughters Kathy Matthews (Jimmy) of Monroe, GA Kelly Gallimore (Brad) of Powder Springs, GA Emily Messer (Tommy) of Cocoa Beach, FL Son-in-Law Jimmy Miller Nine Grandchildren Phillip Matthews, Andrea Marlowe, Travis Miller, Amanda Kendrick, Jason Miller, Alex Gallimore, Alden Gallimore, Rachael Hansen, Ethan Messer Fifteen Great-grandchildren Kolby Matthews, Lyndsey Wages, Kate Marlowe, Kali Marlowe, Tristan Miller, Haris Miller, Rebecca Feagan, Madeline Bazemore, Dalton Kendrick, Shelby Kendrick, Jesse Miller, William Miller, Abram Gallimore, Archer Gallimore, Atticus Hansen Great-Great Grandchildren Mackinley Feagan, Macie Wages, Oakley Wages, Nieces, nephews, and cousins Martha is predeceased by her daughter, Rebecca Miller A Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, July 18, 2018 at 2:00 PM with Pastor Mike Woods Officiating. Services will be held at Mayes Ward-Dobbins Macland Chapel. A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, July 17, 2018 between the hours of 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Mayes Ward-Dobbins Funeral Home.

Martha Kate Manning

March 23, 1927 - July 12, 2018