Martha Bigony Briers

Martha Bigony Briers passed away peacefully early Friday morning, January 23, 2026, after a long respiratory illness complicated by pneumonia.

Born in Clifton Forge, Virginia, on May 30, 1939, Martha was the daughter of the late Dr. John Charlton Bigony and Ruby G. Ward.

She graduated from White Cross School of Nursing in Columbus, Ohio, in 1960. Her nursing career reflected both her compassion and her precision: she first served as an operating room nurse at the Medical College of Virginia (MCV) in Richmond during the early 1970s. She later taught nursing at the Lincoln School in Hinton, West Virginia, where she inspired many young professionals.

Martha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas F. “Tom” Briers — the love of her life — as well as her father, Dr. John Charlton; her mother, Ruby Ward; and her sister, Barbara Edmonds.

She is survived by her children, Charles Steward, Matthew Briers, Charlton Briers, and Tina Briers Shanklin; and by her nephews, John Edmonds IV and David Edmonds. And her close friend of 81 years, Jane Kessler, and Jenny Lee Harvey.

Martha possessed a sharp mind and a spirited curiosity. She rarely missed her daily crossword puzzle and enjoyed reading. She was also a gifted needlework artist, known for her craftsmanship and attention to detail. One of her proudest creative achievements was a kneeling pillow she designed and submitted to Westminster Abbey in Westminster, London, England.

Her faith was central to her life. Martha was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Hinton, West Virginia, and cherished watching Pastor Robbie Merritt preach from Central Baptist during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Martha often recounted with warmth and laughter how she met Tom at Bellpoint Island when a young swimmer playfully tugged her ankle—the beginning of a love story that would last a lifetime. Together they shared many adventures, including a train trip to Branson, Missouri, to see the Gatlin Brothers in concert.

She attended Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond, graduating with the Class of 1957.

Those who knew Martha will forever remember her intelligence, humor, devotion to family, and deep love for the Lord. Her legacy endures in the lives she touched through her kindness, her teaching, and her faith.

Funeral Services will be held 7:00 pm Saturday January 31, 2026, at the Ronald Meadows Funeral Parlors Chapel with Pastors Gary Trout and Robbie Merritt officiating. Friends may call from 5:30 pm until time of services on Saturday at the Funeral Parlors. Due to the weather, there will be a private family burial at a later date. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.

The family would like to thank the staff of Main Street Care, Hospice of Southern WV and Summers Co. ARH. 

Donations of sympathy may be made to Appalachian Teen Challenge, 1877 Good Hope Pike, Clarksburg, WV 26301.