Martha Ellen Sims

Martha Ellen Sims, 57, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 5, 2025 following a four-month long illness. Born on February 3, 1968, in Kingsport, TN, Martha was a cherished member of the Johnson City community, known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering spirit. She will be profoundly missed by family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Martha was a 1986 graduate of Dobyns-Bennett High School, and a 1990 graduate of Mary Baldwin College. She also earned a master’s degree from East Tennessee State University. Martha devoted her entire career to education, beginning with a teaching career in Northwest Georgia and culminating with over 20 years as a Librarian and Media Specialist with the Greene County School System. Following her retirement, her time was spent in service to others, through volunteer work such as driving sheltered animals to their adoptive homes through a charity known as Furry Friends of the Panhandle.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents, James and Mary Sims.

Martha is survived by her beloved brother, Jim Sims and wife Jan. She is also survived by her aunt, Sarah Housley; cousins, Jon and Blair Housley; godmother, Virginia Wooten; and a special group of friends who called themselves "Team Martha" and offered her their unwavering love and support as she fought her final earthly battle.

As we prepare to gather in memory of Martha, we invite all who knew and loved her to come together, share stories, and support one another during this difficult time. Her legacy of compassion and love will live on in our hearts.

A visitation will be held at the Mountain View United Methodist Church on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 10am -11am. A memorial service will follow at 11am with Pastor Joseph Dowling Soka officiating.

Martha's earthly remains will be honored at her final resting place in a small family committal that afternoon, at Gillespie Evergreen Cemetery in Brevard, NC with Pastor Jodie Ifhe of Johnson City First United Methodist Church presiding.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to the Sullivan and Washington County animal shelters, or the aforementioned Furry Friends of the Panhandle, 1304 W Garden Street, Pensacola, Florida 32502.