Martha Ann Thomas

With an unwavering spirit and a heart overflowing with kindness, Martha Ann Thomas (née Bowman) lived a life defined by love, resilience, and an unparalleled sense of humor. Born on January 13, 1947, in the mountains of Tennessee, Martha, fondly known as Nanny Martha, spent 78 years enriching the lives of those around her. She spent the past 50 years in Maypearl, Texas, where she crafted a warm, welcoming home filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.

Nanny Martha was a woman of many layers, her wit as sharp as her empathy was profound. She was a homemaker by profession, but her true calling was being the heart and soul of her family, the backbone that held everyone together. She was a widow, having been married to Frank Thomas, since August 11, 1980. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, like crocheting intricate designs, immersing herself in the world of books, and nurturing her beloved garden. But what mattered the most to Martha was her cherished family, who were the recipients of her boundless generosity and unconditional love.

Martha is survived by her children William Rheal and wife Melissa Rheal, and James Lackey, her grandchildren Jacob Rheal and wife Katie Rheal, Speer Lackey, Miranda Lackey, Jeremiah Lackey, Collin Graham and wife Jeana Graham, Taylor Graham, and numerous great-grandchildren. Martha now rests alongside her daughter Kimberly Rheal, her parents, James and Ellen Bowman, her brother Johnny Bowman, and husband, Frank Thomas. Also preceding her in death were her sisters Racine Burchinal and Catherine Byrd.

In honor of Nanny Martha, we invite you to share your favorite memories, stories, and photographs on her memorial page. Her life was a testament to the power of resilience, the beauty of generosity, and the healing touch of empathy. Let us cherish her memory and continue her legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering strength.