Martha Murray, age 94, passed away peacefully in Abingdon, Virginia. She was born on August 29, 1931, in Ennice, North Carolina to Ola Andrews Smith and Emmett Early Smith. She  spent most of her life in the Baywood community she loved so deeply.

Martha devoted her life to caring for others and serving her community. She worked for 33 years in the cafeteria at Baywood School, serving as manager in her later years. Martha became like a second mother to many of the students of Baywood Elementary. Her cooking was well-known  throughout the community, and it was not uncommon for neighbors to gather at the back door to purchase leftover trays from what many fondly considered the best "restaurant" in Baywood.

Her dedication to service extended beyond the school. For many years, Martha volunteered her time working election polls and assisting with voter registration. After retiring from the school system, she continued her commitment to public service, serving for 13 years as the Registrar of Grayson County.

Martha and her husband, Swanson, were founding members of the Baywood Rescue Squad, where they served their community for decades leaving lasting mark on the Baywood community.

A gifted cook and talented crafter, Martha also loved playing Rook and Bingo. Above all, she was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was a longtime member of Longview Methodist Church and lived her life with quiet strength, grace and  a deep love for her family and community.

Martha is now reunited in heaven with her husband of 64 years, Swanson Murray and her cherished grandson, Daren Dixon.

She is survived by her daughter, Shirley Brown; her granddaughter, Karen Copenhaver and husband Jim Copenhaver; and her grandchildren Eli Copenhaver and wife Amanda; Madeleine Copenhaver and her fiancé, Anthony Howell and Hunter Dixon and Raiden Dixon. She is also survived by special family friend, Glen Hyatt, family members Ted and Sandy Murray and Juanita Murray, along with many extended family members and dear friends.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 18, 2026,  from 1:00-2:00 at Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home.  Graveside service will immediately follow in the Crab Creek Cemetery in Alleghany County.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Baywood Rescue Squad, 47 Cross Roads Dr. Galax, VA 24333.  The family wishes to express their heartfelt appreciation to the nursing and dietary staff at Abingdon Health and Rehabilitation.