Martha Everlena Ward

Martha Everlena Coward Ward passed away on the morning of January 2, 2025 with family and friends present at her bedside after a period of declining health. She was born October 7, 1938 to Frank and Mary Coward.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents and her infant twin brother Benjamin Franklin Coward. Martha is survived by her children, Terence “Terry” Robert Hooper and her daughter Cynthia Gail Ward Coggins. She is additionally survived by her brother Larry M. Coward of New Hampshire, nieces Deborah Adkinson (John) and Sharon Howard (David) along with several cousins.

Martha was a member of the Woodland Church of Christ. She took great strength in her faith and always began and ended her day with a prayer for all those in need.

Martha was a graduate from Cullowhee High School in 1956 and later obtained an associate’s degree in general education in 1996. Martha worked at Buster Brown and Goodson Garments before retiring from Harris Regional Hospital after 28 years of dedicated service as a CNA and respiratory therapist. 

Martha cherished her work in healthcare, but her family brought her the most joy. Terry and Cynthia were her life and she loved them both unconditionally. Martha loved flowers throughout the year and always looked forward to each change of the seasons.

The family will receive friends at Appalachian Funeral Services on January 10, 2025 from 1pm-2pm with a service to follow

The family will receive friends from 1pm-2pm on Friday, January 10, 2025 at Appalachian Funeral Services with her funeral following at 2pm. Her burial will take place following the funeral at Lower Coward Cemetery in Cullowhee, NC.