First Lady Martha Griffin-Hughey

"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive

you unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also."

John 14:3

On a brisk and sunlit morning, October 7, 1952, twins Martha and Mary were born to the late Willie and Lillie Steward in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Martha, affectionately known as Marthann, received her early education at S.A. Roberson and later graduated from Bayonne High School. She went on to serve her country as a civil servant with the Department of Defense at the Military Ocean Terminal in Bayonne, New Jersey. In her role as a Traffic Management Specialist, Martha worked diligently to support military personnel. Her commitment and excellence earned her numerous awards and commendations over the years. She joyfully retired in 2009 after a long and honorable career.

Martha loved the Lord with all her heart, soul, and mind. She was a devoted member of the Church of God in Christ from her youth, where she actively participated in the choir, Sunshine Band, and Purity Class. As she grew in faith, her dedication only deepened. She served in various roles including President of the Women's Department, Building Fund Supporter, State President of the Junior Missionary Board, and Pastor's Aide Leader. Her heart for outreach led her to work tirelessly in Home and Foreign Missions, feed the homeless, and minister to those in prison. Martha was a true intercessor who was often found laboring in prayer in the "Upper Room," standing in the gap for souls to be saved, lives to be changed, and bodies to be healed.

Martha first married Darnell Griffin, and together they were blessed with four beautiful children: Tiwana, David, Allen, and Marcus. She was an elegant woman, graceful, stylish, and full of class.

In August 2002, God blessed her with love again. On March 3, 2003, she married Pastor Theodore Hughey, and with this union, the family grew to include two daughters, Carla and LaRenda. Martha faithfully served alongside her husband at Abundant Life Church of God in Christ as First Lady. She wore many hats-Pastor's Wife, President of the Women's Department, Vice President of the Widows Initiative for the Second Jurisdiction, Executive Team member for the Women's Track of the Men Perfecting Men Conference, and Advisor for the Second Jurisdiction Women's Department. Her life was a testimony of dedication to building the Kingdom of God and winning souls for Christ.

Outside of ministry, First Lady Hughey enjoyed life. She had a passion for shopping and traveling, and she explored the world with joy and curiosity. Her journeys took her to places like Hawaii, Dubai, Italy, and the Caribbean. Just weeks ago, she fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Paris and seeing the Eiffel Tower. She also visited Monaco and the South of France creating memories that will last forever in the hearts of those she loved.

Anointed and dynamic, First Lady Hughey was a powerful speaker. Alongside her beloved sister, District Missionary Janice Gaines, the duo was affectionately known as "Thunder and Lightning"-a reflection of the power and passion they brought to every moment of ministry.She is preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Lillie Steward, and her siblings: Willie Steward, Josephine Smith (Bennie), Lillian Edwards (Johnnie), Allen Steward (Rose), Mary Bryant (Johnnie), and Joseph Steward.

First Lady Martha Griffin-Hughey leaves to cherish her memory:

Her devoted husband, Administrative Assistant Theodore Hughey; her loving children, First Lady Tiwana Becks (Pastor James Becks), David Griffin (Lori), Allen Griffin (Nadirah), Marcus Griffin (Laquisha), Carla Wiley (Elder Raymond Wiley), and LaRenda Raiford (Elder Andre' Raiford); twelve precious grandchildren: Kristin, David Jr., Bianca, Ayani, Joel, Demetrius, Leah, Tyler, Mason, Aiden, Mila, and Adonis; four dear siblings: Elder Tyrone Steward, Esther Golson, District Missionary Janice Gaines, and Marilyn Ford (Ernest); a devoted niece who was raised like a sister, Deborah Sampson (William).

She is also survived by her sisters-in-law: Delphine Steward, Yvonne Hughey-Lee, and Miriam Hughey-Guy (Algie), Stacey Gaines and Tracy Griffin; Brothers-in-law: Carlos Hughey (Rachel), David Hughey Sr. (Florence), and William Hughey; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and cherished friends.

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