Martha Jean McFarland, age 92, of Forest City

Martha Jean McFarland, age 92, a life-long resident of Forest City died Wednesday, December 3. 2025.

Born August 9, 1933. she was preceded in death by her parents, William and Cary McFarland, her sisters, Falsom Wall, Estelle Wilkerson, Margaret Rollins, Peggy Harrill, and her brothers, W.T. McFarland and Johnny McFarland.

She is survived by her sisters, Lottie June McAbee and Mary Jane Hinkle, and seven nieces and nephews and other extended family.

Martha Jean graduated from Cool Springs High School in 1951 and Howard Business College in Shelby in 1952. She began her work career as a cashier at Cato's and then as Secretary for Clarence Ridings, Attorney.

Beginning in 1959, she worked for the Sandy Run Baptist Association for eight years jointly with her work with Florence Baptist Church. She retired in 1998 after serving as Secretary/Administrative Assistant at Florence Baptist Church for 39 ½ years.

Serving with six pastors at Florence, Martha Jean's life was Florence Baptist Church. She dedicated her life to serving all the people of Florence, young and old. She was the ultimate team player and took great pride in everything she did. While working as an employee, she also gave freely of her time as a member serving as Senior Adult Coordinator and Mission Group Leader for many years.

Funeral services were held December 7 at Florence Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. Bobby Gantt and Rev. Daniel Selman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to the Florence Baptist Church, 201 S. Broadway St., Forest City, NC 28043.

An online guest registry is available at www.padgettking.com

Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.