Martha Liles Prather

We gather here today to bid farewell to a true servant of the Lord, a beacon of love and selflessness, Martha Liles Prather. Martha was born July 26, 1939 in Lagrange, Georgia to the late Andrew Clardy Liles and Mamie Vowell Liles. Martha began her journey that would touch so many lives with kindness and devotion.
Martha was called home on the 26th of January 2025 in Fortson, Georgia, where she was surrounded by the love of her family and the grace of God. Her soul is now in Heaven, yet her legacy of love continues to echo in the hearts of those she left behind.
Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church with Rev. Travis Rigsby and Rev. Larry Davis officiating with burial at Antioch Baptist Church Cemetery. A visitation will be held 5:00-7:00 PM Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd Columbus, Georgia 31907.
Martha was the cherished wife of the late Reverend Vernon Prather, a bond sanctified by love and mutual respect. Together they walked in faith, hand in hand, until Vernon was called to the Lord's side. She was a loving mother to Karen Townsend and her husband Scott, and to Paul Prather with his wife Leighann. Martha's nurturing love extended to her siblings, Shirley Posey, with her late husband John, and Marie McCann with her husband Charles. Her six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren were the apples of her eye, each one cradled in the warmth of her affection and prayers.
For 28 years, Martha served as a dedicated para-pro at Mountain Hill Elementary in Fortson, shaping young minds with patience and wisdom. Her dedication to education was a testament to her belief in the potential of every child to shine brightly in the world.
At Kirkland Memorial Baptist, Martha was one of the church pianists for 40 years, offering hymns of praise and worship. As a pastor's wife, she stood steadfast by her husband's side, a partnership that strengthened their congregation and glorified God in every deed.
Martha's interests were as varied as the seasons of the year. She found joy in the simplicity of camping under the stars, the precision of sewing, the delicate craft of ceramics, and the heartwarming act of cooking for others. Yet, nothing brought her more delight than the laughter and stories shared with family and friends.
Describing Martha as faith-filled, loving, and selfless only scratches the surface of her character. She lived her life as a testament to God's love, embodying the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman. Her hands, never idle, worked diligently for her family and community. Her mouth, always wise, spoke kindness and truth. Her heart, ever open, was a sanctuary of comfort and love.
Martha's journey on this earth was a reflection of the Prodigal Son's return to the Father's loving embrace. She lived knowing that her earthly journey was but a prelude to the eternal joy that awaited her in God's kingdom. And now, as we bid her earthly form goodbye, we rejoice in the knowledge that Martha has been welcomed into the arms of her Creator, where the sounds of heavenly choirs eclipse even the most beautiful hymns she played.
We take solace in the words of the Apostle Paul, who said, "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Martha lived for Christ, and now she gains the reward of her unwavering faith. Her life was a gift, a blessing, and a lesson in love that will continue to guide us until we meet her again in the glorious hereafter.
Let us hold fast to the memories, the lessons, and the love that Martha bestowed upon us. Let her life be a beacon that guides us through our own journeys, reminding us to live with faith, to love without reserve, and to serve selflessly.
Martha Liles Prather, your song has ended, but the melody lingers on. Rest now in the peace of Christ, our sister in faith, until we are all united in the heavenly choir. Amen.
Flowers will be accepted but those so desiring may make contributions to Kirkland Memorial Baptist Church, 6304 Lynridge Avenue Columbus, Georgia 31909.
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