Martha Jane Hester, 69, passed away on September 28, 2025 at home surrounded by family. She was born on February 5, 1956 to parents, William Joseph "Joe" and Nadine Kelso.
Martha's passion was her family. Nothing in this world meant more to her than cherishing time with her family and friends. She was small and mighty and loved big. She enjoyed doing anything that consisted of being with her family.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joe and Nadine Kelso; daughter, Lori Kelso; nephews, Carl Eugene Kelso and Heath Kelso; sister, Pam Johnston, and brother Joe Jr.
Survived by children, Savannah, TW, Nadine, Dewayne, Shelly, Roman, and TJ; grandchildren, Jacob, Holly, Thomas, Amy, Matthew, Racheal, Shawn, Kaylee, Paisley, Zach, Cason, Ariyanna; great-grandchildren, Bo, Evan, Anthony, Jonathan, Kaleb, and Kason; siblings, Marsha, Gary, Ronnie, and Sondra; along with many nieces and nephews, and other extended family members.
Martha's wishes were to be cremated and at this time there are no services planned.
You are invited to share a personal memory of Martha or your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Athens and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.
400 S White Street, Athens, TN 37303
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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