Wednesday, October 14, 2026 10:45 am

Martha Taylor Thomason, 82, of Rutherfordton, passed away Friday, October 9, 2026.

A native of Rutherford County, she was born January 13, 1944 to the late Dexter and Mettle Conner Taylor of Gilkey. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 24 years, Franklin Thomason and six siblings; Luther Taylor, George Taylor, Ronald Taylor, Ruby Buckner, Rhonda Hale and Sherry Taylor.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Cynthia Thomason of Garner and Melissa Byrd (Kevin) of Morganton, one sister Sharon Lovelace (Johnny) of Bostic; five grandchildren Cierra Mitchell, Captain Jacob Byrd USMC (Megan), Caroline Byrd, Matthew Byrd (fiancé' Emma Sacchetti), and Kalen Byrd; four great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews.

Martha was a 1962 graduate of RS Central High School. She was employed as a seamstress at Deb Manufacturing, Forest City and Tanner Companies of Rutherfordton.

A private graveside service for the family will be held at Gilkey United Methodist Church Saturday, October 17.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Amorem Hospice, Valdese, 1721 Enon Rd., Valdese, NC 28690.

Online condolences may be made at www.crowemortuary.com. Crowe's Mortuary is assisting the family of Martha Thomason.