Martha Jo "Townsend" Nolan

Mrs. Martha Jo Nolan, age 87, of Covington, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 5, 2026. Born on October 20, 1938, in Covington, Martha Jo was the cherished daughter of Lewis and Musette Townsend, both of whom preceded her in death.

Martha Jo was born and raised in Covington, where she attended Newton County High School. She married the love of her life, Jimmy Nolan, on Christmas Day in 1955, kicking off 57 years of marriage filled with cherished memories with their children, grandchildren, great-grandson, and friends. She was a prayer warrior and woman of faith, attending Lovejoy United Methodist Church for most of her life and most recently attending Julia A. Porter Church. You could find her singing in the choir, serving wherever needed in the church, and always willing to lift up anyone's concern in prayer. Her devotion to her community was evident in the many lives she touched.

For 29 years, Martha Jo served the children of Newton County as a dedicated member of the cafeteria staff at Ficquett Elementary School, Sharp Middle School, and Clements Middle School. Her warmth and care left a lasting impression on her colleagues and the many students she helped nurture.

Martha Jo embraced life with a spirit of adventure and kindness. She loved traveling, whether to Dollywood with family or a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Holy Land with her beloved Jimmy. Staying active and social was important to her. She found joy in walking at Turner Lake, exercising at the YMCA, and enjoying breakfast with her friends at the Krystal Breakfast Club.

Martha Jo's legacy is one of kindness, service, and deep connections. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her love for family and friends, and her unwavering commitment to her community. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Along with her parents, Martha Jo was preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Nolan. She leaves behind a loving family: her children Todd Nolan (Beth) and Tina Nolan; grandchildren Christopher Wyatt, Geoff Nolan (Tomas Talamante), Laura Sullivan (Seth), and Kate Nolan; and one great-grandchild, JohnCartter Wyatt. Martha Jo is also survived by her brothers, Raymand Townsend and Clifford James Townsend; sister-in-law Joyce Nolan; her special friends Frank and Betty Bernat; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family members, and many close friends.

Funeral services for Mrs. Nolan will be held at 3 o'clock on Monday, February 9, 2026, at the Chapel of J.C. Harwell and Son Funeral Home. Interment will follow the service at Covington City Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 2:00 PM until 3:00 PM on Monday prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Julia A Porter Church, or The Church at Haynes Creek.