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Martha Ann Oblinger
Martha Ann Oblinger
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Martha Oblinger Obituary
This obituary was originally published in the Bluefield Daily Telegraph.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Michael Crewey
March 14, 2019
My name is Michael Crewey and Mrs. Oblinger was my first grade teacher, or as we liked to call her "Mrs.Oblong". it's currently in the morning and I felt the sudden urge to find out who it was that left such an impression on me so long ago. Mrs.Oblong was one of the sweetest people i ever knew as a child. I remember one memory in particular. I had taken a game-boy with me to class and was playing it secretly "or so i thought" here and there. Well, she caught me with it, and instead of taking it, or calling my father, she smiled at me and told me "Just put it up and don't let me see it again". Such a small memory as that, has left an impression on me. Something as small as the kindness and smiles she showed me in that small school, will have molded me into the person I am today. To end this I want to say that I believe we were her last class :[ i remember at some point she told us all she had to go and that someone else would be teaching for her because she was sick. I was too young then to understand the severity and seriousness of how sick she really was... I only remember two names of the friends I had from her class, and that is 'Jordan'. He had a sister in the class with him and he was the first friend to ever call me after school. I remember he would tell me about his four wheeler games and how he played them often when he got home. The next name I believe is "Nabil" he was gifted without a doubt. Had his own spelling test's on account of how easy the rest of our's were. He was nothing but nice to me, and I often think about him.
i think of Jordan, Nabil, and Mrs.Oblinger a lot actually. My 2 year's at Dudley Primary School are 2 years I can't forget. I can't thank you enough Mrs.Oblinger, for having such an impact on my life, and introducing me to 2 of the best years, and best friend's I've had so far in my life. Hope you're resting well, ten more years from now.
Sharon Buhls Thornton
September 1, 2009
Martha's glowing smile and enduring enthusiasm for life has radiated throughout the years since we graduated together from GHS in 1979 and memories of Martha will continue to warm the hearts of the many people blessed with the opportunity to meet and know Martha.
Cathy Steger
August 27, 2009
Hello family of Martha. Martha's legacy lives on. Her physical death left me thinking about the important things. She loved Jesus and lived to have others love Him also. Being present at the "going-away ceremony" added to a desire from the Lord to "...go and make disiciples". Many are physically dieing without salvation through Christ, then they enter eternally a 2nd death. Martha was precious in this earthly life and is now with her precious Saviour. To God be the glory forever and ever, Amen!
Linda Thrift-Horton
August 13, 2009
Mark, Mrs. Addington, Rebecca, I just heard about Martha's passing. I am so sorry. It seems like just yesterday we were at BC planning a wedding! I feel bad I lost touch.
Martha was my best friend while in college - she was like my sister. She helped me so much when my own mom died.
It is so hard to know what to say really, except that you are all in my prayers.
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Lisa Mitchell
August 13, 2009
First I would like to send condolences to the entire family. I had the privilege to work with Martha at Cedar Bluff Elementary where she was more than just a co-worker...she was a friend. I am very thankful that God led her to us. She was always so happy and cheerful. I can still hear that wonderful laugh. We laughed much. Martha was always so upbeat even when I am sure she didn't feel well. She was so proud of her daughters, Emily and Amy. She talked about them every day. Her face would absolutely light up. I am sure her smile would have lit the entire sanctuary to see her beautiful girls conduct themselves with such poise and grace at her funeral. You girls are a living legacy. May God bless you all.
Judy Whited-Bailey
August 9, 2009
Dear Mark and family,
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family. It just seems like yesterday we were all in school together. Martha was always so friendly. Cancer is such a tragic illness to go through. My brother in law was diagnosed with bone cancer three months ago, and he is forty three. I just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you and your family. May God Bless each of you.
Judy Whited-Bailey
August 7, 2009
Thanks to everyone who has contributed to the Guest Book. Martha will continue to live in the lives of all she has touched; her husband, her mother, daughters, sister, brother and other family members as well as the precious children she has taught throughout the years. God blessed her daddy and me far beyond anything we deserved when he gave her to us on her daddy's birthday 48 years ago. I am so glad He has let us share her life with each of you. Betty Addington
Dorothy Johnson
August 6, 2009
Emily....
So sorry to hear of your Mom's passing. You and your family are in my prayers. Miss ya.
Denise Campbell
August 6, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I pray that God will bless each of you and comfort you today and always. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Mark Oblinger
August 5, 2009
My sincere gratitude to everyone who has posted a note, or will do so in the future. Amy, Emily and I appreciate the kind words you have all shared about Martha. We had lost touch with some of you for quite some time, but it is pleasant to remember times gone by when we see your names. There will be a void in our lives which can never be filled. We must, however, move ahead with whatever it is God has in store for us. Martha let it be known that she expected no less from us. Most of you never had the honor of seeing her live out her faith day-to-day and especially during the tourtuous last few months. She was generous, valliant, unselfish, gracious, kind and beautiful for the entirety of her life - even in the last moments. She has left us with a legacy and a reminder of what it means to follow and trust in Christ. Thank you for you, Martha. Thank you God for loaning her to me for 33 years. She was, and is, the most wonderful gift anyone ever gave. I love you Marf, and miss you more than I can express. But, we both know, it won't be long before I see that radiant smile and never have to say goodbye again.
Teresa Salyer Douglas
August 5, 2009
Dear Mark and family,
I haven't seen Martha since I graduated from Graham High in 1978. I remember a sincere, sweet girl who was a sharp dresser, good student and someone who had a smile for everyone. Reading through these memories of Martha has confirmed what I always knew, that Martha was someone who would grow up to make a difference. It appears that she has touched so many lives. I offer my prayers to you for comfort during this difficult time.
Amy Oblinger
August 5, 2009
Wow, thanks to everybody who has posted here, sending their love for Mama (Martha) and for us, her family. She was indeed a loving, special person, and all your kind words here are a testament to that. Thanks.
August 4, 2009
Condolences From the Bland County Bears Football Team.
Our Prayers are with you and your Family
Beverly Friedberg
August 4, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very difficult time. I was a classmate of Rebecca's, and grew up in Bluefield spending tons of time with the Addingtons when they lived at Bluefield College. When I think of Martha, I remember her smile and contagious happiness - her kindness and her ability to always see the good in others. Love is never lost, and Martha will live on in the hearts of Mark, her daughters, her mom, Rebecca and Charles, and all who love her. I pray that the pain of losing her in this life, will be eased by the wonderful memories you share-her smile-and knowing she is in heaven with her dad! The world is a better place because of Martha, and she will be a guardian angel for each of you!
My love to each of you,
Beverly (Hurley) Friedberg
Bobby & Alicia O'Quin
August 4, 2009
Mark, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I hope the comfort of knowing that Martha knew and loved the Lord will help during this period.
God Bless Bobby and Alicia O’Quin.
Buddy Pierce
August 4, 2009
Mark,
I am terribly sorry to hear the news about Martha, Your family are in our prayers.
August 3, 2009
Dear Family,
Working with Martha at CBES was such a joy. She had such a deep love for her students. She certainly was a person that elevated those around her through her wonderful smile and deep faith. She always loved to share stories about " Mark and the Girls." The mention of you always brought a twinkle to her eyes. Her deep love for her family was evident. Our prayers are with your family.
Marybeth Elswick
August 3, 2009
MY HUSBAND, TONY RIFFE, JUST FOUND OUT ABOUT THE DEATH OF THIS LOVELY LADIE. WE BOTH WOULD LIKE TO SEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHIES IN THIS TIME OF LOSS. TONY WAS VERY SADDEND AS HE WAS A CLASSMATE OF HERS AND WE KNOW THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE ESPECIALLY THROUGH CANCER AS WE LOST HIS SISTER-IN-LAW JUST A FEW SHORT YEARS AGO TO IT. MAY GOD BLESS AND BE WITH THE FAMILY THRU THIS TIME.
IN CHRISTIAN LOVE,
TONY(DOGG) & CYNTHIA RIFFE
August 3, 2009
Dear Oblinger and Addington Family,
I went to High School with Martha, Mark and Charles and when I heard this sad news today, I couldn't believe it and immediately thought back to my memories of Martha. I remember Martha being so nice, smart, talented and kind. She met everyone with a smile and a kind word. When I learned that she went on to be an elementary school teacher, I thought "what a perfect thing for her to do with her life." She will be missed terribly by her family, friends and particularly her children and the children that she touched. I hope that you all meet her wishes and dreams for you. She will be watching down on all of you from heaven.
Sincerely,
Mark, Steve and Kathy Epperly
August 3, 2009
Dear Mark, Amy,Emily and Betty June,
Our hearts break for your loss, but we rejoice for Martha who is now with Jesus, her dad and family and friends who have preceded her. There is a party being held to welcome Martha home. Our prayers are with you all and we ask God to give you His peace and strength as you face each day. We love you.
Dale and Gilda Riddle
August 3, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Mrs. Oblinger was a great teacher and a truly wonderful and strong women. My son Jordan Austin had the privilege of having her for first grade in 2007 and she even attended one of Jordans soccer games, which really ment alot to him! We all feel very privileged to have had the chance to get to know her (also "Mrs. A" and Amy). We will never forget her! With Love, Tabitha and Jordan Austin
The Sell family
August 3, 2009
Dear Mark, Amy and Emily,
We are very sorry to hear about Martha. She was a caring person who, no matter what, remained remarkably upbeat. It was a pleasure to work with her when the children were younger. From grade school PTA through high school contest play and band, she was always there to support the children. We will remember her gentle kindness and that wonderful, glowing smile. Our prayers are with you.
~Mark, Pat, Frank, Tess, Christin, and Sophie Sell
Diana Thompson
August 3, 2009
To the Oblinger Family:
Martha and I where classmates at Graham. She had the greatest laugh and was kind and generous to all. God
has chosen another angel to grace the wonderful heavens. Bless you all, we will see Martha again.
August 3, 2009
Mark and family,
I extend my sympathy at your personal loss and the loss to our community.
Mark, you and your family have been a great Christian influence to our college students and the youth in our community. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Joan Buchanan, BSC
Tonia Gallemore Steed
August 3, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you Mark, Mrs. Addington, Rebecca,Charles and the girls. I can remember Martha when i was a little girl living next door. She was always someone I looked up to. Martha and the Addington's will always hold a special place in my heart.
With deepest sympathy,
Tonia Gallemore Steed
Carole Hutchinson Kulas
August 3, 2009
Mark and Daughters,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
With sympathy,
Carole Hutchinson Kulas
Wilma Bowen
August 3, 2009
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I knew Martha as a special and caring girl who grew up to be a wonderful young woman. You have been and are in mythoughts and prayers.
August 3, 2009
Emily you know how much Gage loved your mom, we are blessed even to have known her a short time and let her share in our childs life. Martha made it so easy to be a homeroom mom and we loved craft time! She was a truly beautiful person and we will remember her always.
Shonnie and Gage Wyatt
JOANNE WILLIAMS
August 3, 2009
MARK,
SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES LOSS. YOU WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS.
JOANNE WILLIAMS
BLUEFIELD STATE COLLEGE
Dorothy Wilkerson
August 3, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers have been and will be with the family in the difficult days ahead. The talent and loving Martha Oblinger will be missed by many people.
Jimmy Pittman
August 3, 2009
Mark,
We are sorry to hear of your loss. You and your daughters are in our prayers and thoughts.
God Bless.
Jimmy and Iva Pittman
Tammy Neel Nuss
August 3, 2009
Mark and family,my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I was so sorry to hear about Martha.
August 3, 2009
To Betty and Rebecca,
No one knows any better than we do what you are experiencing right now. We lost Mary Ann in 2004 at the age of 47 after fighting a couragous battle with breast cancer. But with a strong faith, a loving family, and wonderful Christian friends, we have survived. Life must go on. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love,
Libby and Sonny Scott
Abingdon, Va.
Martha Cregger
August 2, 2009
Mark, Emily and Amy,
We are sorry to hear of Martha's passing. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Take care and may God Bless you all.
Sam, Martha and Pamela Cregger
Danny and Anita Bentley
August 2, 2009
Mark, Emily and Amy,
You all our in our thoughts and prayers at this time. We didn't know Martha very well, but we were continuely praying for her and your family during her struggle. We know that Martha is happy and free of suffering now. Keep the faith and take each step one second, one minute, one hour and one day at a time. Remember, Martha's wonderful smile and all the good times you all had and the wonderful memories you made together and as a family. Let us know if there is anything we can do for you or the girls. We truly do love Emily.
jennifer lowe
August 2, 2009
Sorry to hear about your loss. My son had Mrs. Oblinger in second grade at Cedar Bluff Elementary. He really enjoyed her class and learned alot from her. She will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jennifer and Noah Lowe
Billy Peters
August 2, 2009
Mark, I am so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Take care, hope to see you soon.
Robert Hawkes
August 2, 2009
To Mark and the family We are so sorry to hear about your lost of Martha, she was such a fine person, our prayers are with you, remember keep the faith and dont give up during these times. Robert "Festus" Hawkes and Debbie Hawkes
Joan Leftwich
August 2, 2009
Emily,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your sweet mother. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
David & Becky Bryant
August 2, 2009
Mark and family.
So sorry to hear of Martha's passing. I remember Martha several years ago when she was with me in one of the Beth Moore bible studies at Westminister Church.. She was wonderful person. Our thoughts and prayer are with you all doing this difficult time
Todd Graham
August 2, 2009
Mark, Amy, and Emily-
Martha will always be remembered by myself along with each member of the Bluefield State baseball team. She encouraged us to live our lives in a Christ like manner each and every day. Her courage in the past year has inspired me. And I now pray for you to remain "strong and courageous" just as the good book tells us...For Heaven has recieved a beautiful Angel..
Torie Eells
August 2, 2009
It's been a long time since I've seen you guys, but I loved having you around. Your mom was a such a great person and I'm glad I've known your family. Love to you all.
Jessica Bailey-Adkisson
August 2, 2009
May God bless you and and your family w/ his love and kindness during this time of great loss! You are all in my thoughts and prayers!
God Bless!
Kathryn Butcher
August 2, 2009
Mark
I will always remember Martha from our days at First Baptist Church. Such a beautiful person on the inside and our!
Dan and Sandy MacMillan
August 2, 2009
Mark, and Family,
Sandy and I have been rememberig in our thoughts and prayers during this time. Marthat was such a blessing and encouragement to be around. Our sincere sympathy and condolences go to you Mark and your girls
August 2, 2009
Dear Mark and family--I extend my deepest, most sincere condolences to you on the loss of a wonderful wife and mother. Martha lived life with a grace and "others-consciousness" that truly embodied a Christian spirit. We are all richer for having known her and will remember you often, daily in our prayers.
Love, Jim & Carol Nelson
Mitch & Loretta Boggan
August 2, 2009
Martha touched so many lives, and the legacy she leaves in a loving husband and two beautiful, talented and savvy daughters reminds us all of what a wonderful woman she was. The angels look a little dimmer today now that Martha's brilliant smile is lighting up the heavens
Fred and Donna Thomas
August 2, 2009
Mark,Amy, and Emily,
Though it has been many years since our families were separated by jobs moving us across the southeast, Martha always kept us informed (via Christmas cards/letters)of all the ups and downs of your lives. Our family and your family has a bond that distance shall never,ever break!
We never heard Martha complain about her condition. We had no idea she had made turn for the worse til Mark called us about 3 weeks ago.
The memories that our families made in the 2 1/2 short years that we lived in Bluefield are so comforting right now--you all are the greatest.Martha could make us feel so welcome anytime.
As you girls have grown up, so have our kids. Matt has come back to God in the last 3 years,met a very Godly woman (Greta) and they are expecting a baby boy in December!! Meredith will be graduating Univ. of TN.-Chattanooga next summer, and then will attend Pharmacy school hopefully next fall!! Mitchell is working part-time and will be graduating from Ga. Gwinnett College next December w/major in Business Marketing!!!
Matt told me yesterday that Mark and Martha meant a lot to him as a young man--he said he learned alot from both of you and had so many good memories with you, Mark!!
We send you our love and will deliver some hugs on Monday,OK?
We love you all--Fred and Donna
Lynda Morphis Drye
August 2, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of Martha's passing. She and I were in Sunday school together as teenagers at First Baptist Church. I remember her as kind and sweet. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Richard & Sheila Owensby
August 2, 2009
Mark and Betty,
Sheila and I were saddened to hear about Martha. Please know that we will keep you in our thoughts, hearts and prayers.
Elizabeth Collins
August 2, 2009
Sorry for your loss.
August 1, 2009
Betty, I too know the pain of watching an adult child lose their battle with cancer.You and your family are in my prayers.Cherish the memories of that beautiful smile.Love to your family.Kimberly Scott Hale
Mandy Slone-Broomfield
August 1, 2009
To the family of Martha Oblinger- I am very sorry for your loss. Losing a parent is one of the hardest things you will ever have to go through in life..I will pray for all of you. Emily and Amy, If you need anything please let me know.
Jenny Raley
August 1, 2009
Our deepest sympathies go out to your family. Martha taught my son Mason at Dudley. She was such a kind and loving person, who always had a smile to brighten your day. My hope is that our prayers will give you strength and comfort at this difficult time.
August 1, 2009
we are so sorry for your loss Mrs. oblinger taught my daughter first grade at dudley. She was a great woman and teacher. she taught my daughter alot. she will be missed greatly. thank you so much courtney and caitlyn neal.
Thomas Jeffery
August 1, 2009
The world lost a angel, but her lessons will not be forgotten everyone, her students, friends and family got much from her and will last by their actions and memories. Love, kindness were just some lessons she taught and it will be passed on for all time. I will remember and pass her lessons on. Thank you Martha.
Lloyd Shelton
August 1, 2009
Mark,
May God be with you and the family through this difficult time.
Joe Newton
August 1, 2009
My deepest condolences to all of Martha's family at this time. I recall Martha and Rebecca as little girls during the time Charles and Betty served the pastoral needs of Memorial Baptist Church in Bluefield VA during the 1960's, and have seen the family continue to enrich the community many different ways from then until the present time. God's blessings on all of you.
Peggy Swann
August 1, 2009
My thoughts and prayers have been with you and your family during these difficult times. I remember the Sunday that Mr. Addington announced there was a new baby girl in Callao and that she had been born on his birthday. He was very proud of that and I can remember holding her in my arms (I was 11) I know that she is not suffering now that she is with our Lord and her heavenly family. May you find peace in knowing that she will be forever without pain and waiting for us in heaven. Peggy Stephens Swann
August 1, 2009
I am so sorry to hear about Martha. We were classmates & she was a dear person. My deepest sympathy & prayers are with you at this time of loss & sorrow. I would have love to see her at the upcoming reunion but we shall have a reunion of our own someday. God be with you all. Pam Cochran Huynh
Patti Cettin
August 1, 2009
Dear Mark, Emily and Amy,
We are so sorry to hear of Martha's passing. We will miss her warm smile and wonderful sense of humor. She was a caring teacher who never gave up on a student. She gave generously of her time to the school when our children were growing up. I enjoyed working with her on PTA. We will always remember her as a truly good person who never said an unkind word about anyone. Please take care of yourselves. With Love, Patti, Joe and John Cettin
August 1, 2009
Our deepest sympathy for your family. We, too, the hurt of losing a daughter and sister. We pray for God's comfort for you.
Polly Lucas
Kathy Lucas Richardson
August 1, 2009
God's blessings be with all the family. You have been in our collective and individual prayers. Much love - Vicki & Steve Fey
August 1, 2009
Mark and family, so sorry to hear of your loss of Martha. I know she will be missed by all those who knew her. I send you my deepest sympathy. Love and Prayers, Jody Chudina
The Sizemore Family
August 1, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
August 1, 2009
My brothers join me in sending
our deep sympathy,
Mary Catherine
Sharon Lowe
August 1, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through this most difficult time. I worked with Martha at Cedar Bluff Elementary and what a joy she brought to the school. We can only be comforted by knowing that our loss was such a gain for Heaven. May the Lord wrap His loving arms around you and carry you safely through this journey. My prayers to you.
In His love,
Sharon Lowe
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