Martha Jo Squibb

Martha Jo Squibb, 91, of Johnson City, Tennessee, went home to Heaven on Sunday, January 19, 2025, from her residence.

In 1933, Martha was born into the loving home of Joe Shanks and Addie Maloney Shanks of Telford, Tennessee. As she grew up, she would learn the meaning of hard work through her grandfather’s business, the Eureka Roller Mill in Telford.

After graduating from the Washington College Academy, Martha would attend East Tennessee State University for business. Soon thereafter, she began working for Motors Insurance Company, a subsidiary of General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC). She would enjoy her career there as one of the few women working in that industry at that time. 

At 25 years old, Martha would meet and marry the love of her life, John Squibb, and together they would make their house a home. Together they would love and raise their three sons: John Squibb Jr., Joe Squibb, and Gary Squibb. She dotted on her boys. She enjoyed throwing birthday parties for her children when they were younger and served as a P.T.A. Room Mother for several years. She was proud of her home and kept it immaculate. She truly enjoyed bird watching, growing her Salmon Geraniums and other flowers, reading, and keeping up with the local community events. Martha was proud of the home she made.

She was a great help to her husband in running his construction business, Squibb Land Company. She was his right hand and saw to it that what needed to get done, got done. Martha and John loved each other very much and enjoyed every year they had together. She loved to travel, so she and John would enjoy trips to Europe, Nassau, Alaska, the Panama Canal just to name as few. Before John’s passing, they were able to celebrate their golden anniversary together.

A faithful member of the First United Methodist Church of Johnson City since the 1950’s, Martha loved her Lord and her church. She would attend her church through the years until she was physically unable. She didn’t let that stop her though, as she still watched the services online and supported the church.

Along with her parents, Martha is preceded in death by: her loving husband, John Squibb; two sons, Joe Squibb and Gary Squibb; Emma “Aunt Chip” Eads, who spent a lot of time with Martha and took Martha on many shopping trips in Bristol; and Uncle Kyle Eads, who used to slip her money.

Those remaining to cherish her memory include: her son, John Squibb Jr.; her angel and daughter she never had, Valerie Vines; and her friends, Buster Coomer and Mike Sweeney.

A very special thanks to: her housekeeper, Rachael Keister; her caregivers, Mary Johnson, Reola Hopkins, Carolyn Jackson, Harriet Fitzgerald, and Lelia; and Ariel at Amedisys Hospice. Thank you all for your loving kindness and tender care of Martha.

A reception for friends and family will be held from 12:00 pm till 2:00 pm on Friday, January 24, 2025 in the Oak Hall at Morris-Baker Funeral Home.

A graveside service is scheduled for 2:00 pm on Monday, January 27, 2025 at Monte Vista Memorial Park. Those wishing to attend are asked to meet at the cemetery by 1:50 pm. Pastor Jodie Ihfe of First United Methodist Church of Johnson City will be officiating.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Avenue Johnson City, Tennessee 37601, is honored to serve the family of Martha Squibb. 423-282-1521.