It is with much sadness we share that Martha J Church passed on October 12th. This was most unexpected and she would not be pleased that her time was cut short. Even more so that she had planned to vote the next morning.

Martha was the daughter of the late Albert H Church and Martha Jane McKnight Church, born on Aug 11, 1942. And very proud to have been a Leo.

Martha was part of the North Fulton High School class of 1960 and still involved with their various events. She was also a graduate of both Oglethorpe University and The Emory University School of Law. She spent many years practicing law, and never fully retired.

During her semi-retirement she spent much time traveling. Most recently, she spent several weeks in Scotland with a group of dear friends in pursuit of fine scotch. 

Martha was heavily involved in multiple circles including a long-time book club that started each meeting with mimosas. And eventually they would get to the book.

One of her strongest commitments over the last 30 years was to politics. The need to vote, and the opportunity to be involved with elections were hours of time best spent in her eyes.

She and her late husband Lenny were avid members of the Conifer Society and have a forest in their backyard to prove it. 

They were also part of the Ellsworth crew spending many a holiday, sporting event, or just a Saturday night as guests of the chef sharing another bottle of great wine.

Martha was proud to be a resident of Buckhead for much of her life, truly circling back. Her Peachtree Hills neighbors were the best you can have as friends. 

As well, Martha maintained a strong bond with members of a Piedmont Hospital sponsored study group for memory care patients and their caregivers. This led to another support group after dealing with the loss of her husband and brother, both groups were lifelines while going through such a difficult time.

Martha is survived by her daughter Evelynn D Kuckleburg, son Raymond K Elderd III, grandsons Raymond Elderd IV, Charles Elderd, Antonio Elderd, brother George M Church (Barbara C), nephews William R Church (Kristi K), Steven Church, Brian Church, nieces Jessica R Drew (Colt), Kaytlin M Church, and beloved housemate Pumpkin. Martha was preceded in death by her brother Albert H Church Jr and husband of 20 years, Leonard J Oddo.

Martha spent time with her family over the years with visits between Atlanta, Cockeysville, Fenwick Is, Pittsburgh, Cheyenne, Minneapolis, Colorado Springs, and most recent back in Buckhead. We shared what most families do with the holidays, happy events, and sad ones but always included a libation (as Mama would say) and some cutthroat gut (as Mama would inspire). And a lot of laughs.