Joe Ann Martin

Joe Ann "Joe" Martin, 78, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on October 19, 1946, in Jackson, Mississippi, Joe lived a life defined by compassion, service, and unwavering faith. Joe began her professional journey at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center, where she dedicated twenty-seven years as a registered nurse certified in oncology and infection control. Her work was more than a career-it was a calling. She guided and comforted patients navigating new cancer diagnoses, always offering a steady hand and an encouraging word. Her deep empathy and medical skill left an indelible impact on all who crossed her path. A devoted servant of the Lord, Joe was an active member of her church community throughout her life. She taught Sunday School, sang in the choir, and participated wholeheartedly in outreach ministries. In 2002, after retiring, she relocated to Memphis to live with her daughter, Vanessa Clark. There, she joined the Temple of Deliverance COGIC under the leadership of Bishop G. E. Patterson, where her faith continued to shine. Joe served faithfully in the Health & Healing Ministry and founded the "Wings of Faith," an initiative promoting cancer awareness and encouraging regular health checkups. Joe's commitment to community extended well beyond the church walls. She volunteered in the membership department at Temple of Deliverance, at the National Civil Rights Museum assisting the medical team during major events, and with the American Cancer Society to further her mission of education and compassion. Even as she faced her own illness, Joe never stopped helping others. She embodied the spirit of service and resilience-a true woman of good works. Those who knew Joe will remember her as caring, compassionate, and fiercely supportive. Her witty humor, outspoken nature, and endless encouragement uplifted family, patients, and friends alike. She touched lives with kindness and grace, guided always by her faith and her beloved scripture: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Joe is survived by her loving daughter, Vanessa Clark, her sister, Bethany Johnson, her sister-in-love, Veria Smith, nieces and nephews. Her extended family and countless others will forever carry her memory as a beacon of love, strength, and faith. II Timothy 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Joe lived this truth every day of her life. The family will receive friends Tuesday, October 7, 2025 from 5:00pm-7:00pm at RS Lewis & Sons 374 Vance Ave, Memphis, TN 38126. Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, October 8, 2025 11:00am at Temple of Deliverance COGIC 369 GE Patterson Ave, Memphis, TN 38126 Internment will be in Calvary Cemetery 1663 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38106