Martha Charlotte Rock

Martha Charlotte Rock, 94, went to be with Jesus her Savior on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, where she joined the love of her life, Ryland F. Rock Jr., and her second son, Philip (surviving wife, Karen). 

Martha Charlotte was born in Whitesville, West Virginia, to the late Edward Van and Emily Frances Howell. She graduated from Portsmouth Ohio High School in 1948 and then Bryan College with a BA in Voice in 1953. She worked 20 years in the Forsyth County school system at Mineral Springs Junior High as an office administrative assistant. She was a pastor’s wife most importantly, supporting her husband’s ministry, even composing Christmas programs and singing our favorite “Sweet Little Jesus Boy” every year. She was a loving mother to her 5 children and Mamaw to her 12 grands and 30 great grands who loved her dearly. Growing and nurturing a variety of flowers Spring, Summer and Fall brightened her days. She loved singing in the church choir for years, playing the piano and even loved playing water-filled wine glasses. Working puzzles was her favorite pastime and brought her much joy and fulfillment. She loved riding through the countryside with her son and daughter-in-law during all seasons of the year. She usually ended those rides eating her favorite country cooking and most importantly...eating ice cream. 

Martha Charlotte, the last of her family, was preceded in death by her loving husband of 54, years Ryland Franklin Rock Jr; her second son, Philip Edward (surviving wife, Karen); son-in-law, Roger Boles (surviving wife, Pam); her parents, Edward Van and Emily Frances Howell; two brothers; and one sister. 

She is survived by two sons, David of King, NC and wife Debbie, and Michael of Moore, SC and wife Linda; two daughters, Pam Boles of Staunton, VA, and Joy Hardee of Concord, NC and husband Kevin; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. 

Services will be held on Monday, March 3, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Grace Baptist Church, with visitation to follow the service until 8:00 PM. Internment will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Parklawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in her memory to the building fund of Grace Baptist Church.