Martha Pearce

Martha Jones Pearce, 97, of Zebulon, NC, died on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at her residence.

She was born on October 1, 1928, in Franklin County, NC, a daughter of the late Charlie Albert Jones and Emmie Jane Massey Jones. She spent all of her life in the Franklin County area where she worked as a seamstress at Mortex, Cotton Exchange, and Patsy Aikens Designs. She was an excellent seamstress, making many wedding dresses and prom dresses over the years. She had a strong work ethic and loved to say, "idle hands are the Devil's workshop." In her spare time, she enjoyed caring for her flower garden, making sure there wasn't a weed in sight. More than anything else she loved her family.

She was married to Talmadge Vaden Pearce, who predeceased her.

She is survived by her three children, Randy Pearce (Tracey), Beverly Pearce (Boston), and Wanda Whitley (D. L.); four grandchildren, Travis Pearce (Loretta), Jeffrey Whitley, Jamie Pearce (Tracey) and Randy V. Pearce (Melissa); a step grandson, Tyler Winstead (Chelsea); ten great grandchildren, Taylor Hykes (Ethan), Addison Pearce, Vaden Pearce, Cana Pearce, Callum Pearce, Vivian Pearce, Brock Pearce, Aiden Pearce, Brooks Winstead, and Amelia Winstead; and a sister, Blonnie Guy.

In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by son, Rudy Pearce; two brothers, Davis Jones and Zollie Jones; sisters, Laura Wilkes, Hattie Jeans, Mary Denton, Hettie Denton, and Mattie Perry; a grandson, Matthew Whitley; and a great grandson, Gavin Pearce.

A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Strickland Funeral Home, Wendell, NC, with Pastor Harry Upchurch officiating. Interment will follow at the Pearce Baptist Church Cemetery.

According to her wishes, those that knew her are encouraged to plant a flower or garden in her memory. The family welcomes flowers and casual attire at the funeral.