Martha Mae (Wimer) Varner

Martha Mae (Wimer) Varner, 83, of Monterey, passed away Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital in Richmond.

She was born August 8, 1939 in the Pines area of Highland County, a daughter of the late Clarence Eldridge and Duffie Madeline (Withrow) Wimer. 

On May 16, 1959, she married Douglas B. Varner, who preceded her in death on November 2, 2013.  Martha was also predeceased by her daughter, Donna Varner Lotts; and her brothers, Marlin, Dale and William Wimer.

She was a member of the former Union Chapel Methodist Church in Blue Grass.

Martha was a babysitter to countless children throughout the community, providing childcare from the 1950’s to her retirement in 2003.  Additionally, she had been employed at the Aileen Sewing Factory and the Homestead’s Laundry Department. 

She also loved tending her garden and to can her bounty, supplying her family with canned goods. She enjoyed working in her yard and flower beds - she loved her flowers, especially lilacs.

Martha enjoyed time spent sewing and would do so until her hands prevented her from continuing.  Music was also special to her, especially country music, Elvis and Conway Twitty; and she was ecstatic to see Billy “Crash” Craddock at the Highland County Fair.  In past years, she enjoyed dancing and going to square dances on Saturday nights at the Blue Grass Ruritan Building.  She so appreciated Sunday drives and the simple things in life, such as chocolate ice cream.

Above all she was a very loving, giving, caring and selfless wife, mother and grandmother. Martha adored her grandchildren and would help them with anything. 

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Varner White and husband, Pete of Mustoe; granddaughter, Tiffany White of Bridgewater; grandson, Corey White of Mustoe; son-in-law, David Lotts of Monterey; brother, Russell Wimer and wife, Faye of New Market; sister-in-law, Sherry Wimer of New Market and numerous nieces and nephews.  

Per her wishes, her body was cremated.

A memorial service will be conducted 11 a.m., Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Obaugh Funeral Home with Pastor Bobbie Jo Gardner officiating.  Inurnment will follow in Monterey Cemetery.

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to WVLS, Allegheny Mountain Radio, 9836 Browns Creek Road, Dunmore, WV 24934, or the Highland County Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 268, Monterey, VA 24465.