Doretha "Dochie" Martin
Doretha "Dochie" Martin, 74, found peace in the promise of eternal life and God’s loving embrace on April 9, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones. She was born in Martinsville, VA on January 28, 1951, to the late Naomi Millner Jefferson Randolph and William Jefferson.
In addition to her parents, she joins those dearly missed before her: Grandparents: James Robert Millner and Ida B Smith Millner; Sisters: Sandra "Drucilla" Hairston and Brenda "Nuckie" Hampton; Niece: Aphrodite Hairston; Step-Father: James Randolph; Sisters-in-law: Gracie Martin-Scales and Tanya N Martin; Brothers-in-law: Bishop Oscar A. Scales, Jr., Fred Culpepper and Albertino Hairston; In-laws: James Rufus Martin and Kathryne Taylor King Martin.
Doretha attended Albert Harris High School and Martinsville High School. She later went on to receive her Associate Degree in Applied Science with a major in Administration of Justice at Patrick Henry Community College. Doretha was employed with the Henry County Public Schools as the Assistant Manager of the Axton Elementary cafeteria staff, of which she had been a team member since 2017. She was a member of Inheritors Ministries where she led the Ladies’ Ministry, and also worked with the Culinary Ministry, Media Team and the Praise and Worship Team.
Doretha was a soft-spirited woman who loved God. Her faith was the foundation of her life, evident in all she did and all the love she gave. Doretha was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her greatest joy was her family; her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whom she cherished dearly.
Doretha had a passion for sharing the love of Christ with others, always offering words of hope and encouragement. With a gentle soul and a green thumb, she poured her heart into nurturing her plants, home and relationships, tending each with grace and care. Whether she was lost in the pages of a book or working on a craft, creating something beautiful from something old, she brought warmth and creativity into everything she touched. She enjoyed creating and spreading an abundance of love and joy through her personalized inspirational Love Card Creations: "Doedan Cards".
Above all, she lived with joy and a hopeful heart, knowing one day she would be in the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
She leaves to carry on her legacy and cherish her memory, her loving Husband: Rufus Daniel “Danny” Martin of Martinsville, VA; Daughter, Teena Jefferson-Hobson (Timothy) of Richmond, VA; Son, Leonard Smith (Jamie) of Alexandria, VA; Grandchildren: RayQuan Johnson, TiaLa’sha Richardson (Marquis), Timi’sha Hobson, CaDasha Porter, Amari Smith, Jaiden Smith, Elizabeth Garris, Olivia Appleberry; Great-granddaughter: Y’Nai Richardson; Great-grandson: Legend Johnson; Sisters: Trevia Culpepper (late Fred), Hiawatha “Polly” Jefferson, Julia Lampkins (Chris), Willie “Wikki” Jefferson, Mattie Moore (James), Ida “Kickie” Anglin (Ricky), Deborah “Debbie” Penn (Jeff); Sister-in-law: Glenda Martin; Brothers-in-law: James “Doolie” Martin (late Tanya), Melvin Martin (Debra), Pastor David Martin (Denese), Pastor Bobby W. Martin, Sr. (Sharmane). In addition a cherished host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and dear friends.
The Memorial Celebration for the life of Doretha "Dochie" Martin will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, with Pastor David O. Martin presiding at Inheritors Ministries located at 230 Grassy Creek Road, Martinsville, VA 24112. Visitation will be held 11:00 am - 11:30 am. The Memorial Celebration will follow.
Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wrightfuneralservices.net.
