Wayne County Press
Thursday, April 4, 1935
p. 1, col. 6

Mrs. Martha M. Whitson, well-known Wayne County lady, passed away early Sunday morning, March 31st, at the home of her brother, Frank Weaver, near Johnsonville.  She had been in failing health for some time.

Funeral services were conducted from the Johnsonville M.E. church, Tuesday afternoon by Elder W.D. Crippin, assisted by the pastor, Rev. Clodfelter.  Interment was in the Johnsonville Cemetery.

Martha Matilda, daughter of David and Naomi Weaver, was born in Wayne County,  Illinois, February 12, 1859.   She grew to womanhood in the Round Prairie neighborhood, and was united in marriage with Luke Whitson in 1878.  Three children were born to this union.

Early in life she was converted, dedicating her life to the service of Christ and united with the Round Priarie General Baptist church. Later she moved her membership to the Rock Branch church where she retained her membership throughout her life. She was a member of one of the old and highly respected pioneer families of the county and was much beloved by a great circle of friends and acquaintances.

For many years she with her husband and family resided in Johnsonville but for the past twenty-three years they have made their home with their children and other relatives. Her companion passed away, October 4, 1932. Since that time she has not enjoyed good health.

She was 76 years, 1 month and 19 days. She is survived by two sons, Cloyd of Glendale, California, and Irl, of near Thawville, one daughter, Mrs. E.A. Bing, of Gilbert, Arkansas, one foster-son Fred Whitson, of Fairfield, eight grandchildren, two brothers, Theodore Weaver of near Cisne and Frank Weaver, two sisters, Mrs. Owen Galbraith  and Mrs. Cynthia Tibbs, both of Glendale, California, and a host of other relatives.