Martha Heath James of Smith Beach

Martha Lucille Heath James died peacefully in her happy place, “Starve Easy”, at Smith Beach on October 11th, 2019, in Eastville, VA, at the age of 73.

Martha 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.

Martha was born on February 12, 1946, in Nassawadox, VA. She graduated from Northampton High School in 1964. Martha married her high school sweetheart Smith on 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.

Martha 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 will be held on Tuesday, October 15, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Franktown UMC, with the Reverend Rachel G. May officiating. A reception will be held in the Social Hall immediately following the service. Friends may call at the church one half hour prior to the service. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Martha’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the United Methodist Women of Franktown UMC at 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.

On-line condolences can be sent to the family at www.foxfuneralhomes.com

Arrangements by Fox Funeral Home, Temperanceville, VA.