Martha Mobley James

Martha Mobley James, born on July 16, 1952, passed away surrounded by the love of family and the legacy of a life well lived.

Martha was the cherished daughter of Robert Joseph Mobley and Cicely Mae Glendinning, both of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andrew James, and her dear sisters Jane Mobley, Marjorie Habelitz and Lydia Mobley.

She leaves behind her son, David Anderson (Theresa); her daughter-in-love and niece Cicely Orr; her brothers, Joe Mobley and Richard Mobley (Paige) and her sisters, Mary Grace Wilson (Doyle) and Audrey Jones (Mardy). Martha is also lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews whose lives she touched in meaningful ways.

Martha started her teaching career as an English teacher. She retired as the librarian at Dunbar Junior High School in Little Rock. She valued teaching because it allowed her to help and reach children, while developing meaningful relationships with them and her colleagues.

Martha’s laugh was truly contagious, and her effervescent personality could light up any room. She was a gifted storyteller and an exceptional wordsmith, known for her insight, wisdom, and curiosity about the world—there wasn’t much she didn’t know or couldn’t learn. She had a deep passion for quilting, reading, friends and, above all, God and her family.

Those who knew Martha will remember her for her innate kindness and warmth, which naturally drew people to her. She had a special love for family history and genealogy, spending countless hours exploring and sharing stories through ancestry and preserving the legacy of those who came before her. Passing down family stories and connections was one of her greatest joys.

Martha’s life was defined by her love for Jesus and others. Through Prayer, laughter, and meaningful relationships, she nurtured many throughout her life. Throughout her long bout with cancer, with the help of her close prayer warrior friends, she actively sought to bless others and spread the good news about Jesus’s love for everyone. As one doctor noted, “I think Martha is chronically in good spirits!“.

Martha’s life verse was Romans 8:28.

“We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to his purpose.”

In her passing, this has never been more true than it is today.

Her memory will live on in the stories she shared, the quilts she created, the prayers she prayed, the people she blessed and the family she cherished so deeply.

Smith Little Rock Funeral Home

8801 Knoedl Ct, Little Rock, AR 72205 501-224-2200

www.SmithFamilyCares.com