Velda Geneva Martin

Velda Geneva Martin, 92, of Bassett, VA passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, August 3, 2026 with family members at her side. She was born in Bassett on January 10,1934 to the late James Russell Smith and the late Jane Ellen Spencer Smith (Vaughn).

She was preceded in death in 2011 by her husband of 63 years, Calvin Davis Martin. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Albert Smith and her Brooksie Smith Mize.

Geneva was a member of Northside Baptist Church in Bassett. She loved her pastor and her church family but most of all, her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Geneva retired from Tultex Corporation after working many years at Bassett-Walker Knitting Company.

Geneva is survived by her children, Jerry Martin (Susan) of Pfafftown, NC, Allen Martin (Glenda) of Winston Salem, NC, Sharon Dodson (Randy) of Gray, TN, Barry Martin of Bassett, VA, and Neal Martin of Mocksville, NC. She was blessed to have 10 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild. She had numerous nephews and nieces, 2 whom she was especially close as her devoted caregivers, Dumpy Mize Wilson and Lillie Mae Mize Thomas.

The Martin family would like to thank Heather, Stephanie and CeCe of Carilion Hospice for their expert care and support.

A funeral service to celebrate Velda's life will be held on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Bassett Funeral Service at 12:00 noon, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Roselawn Burial Park in Martinsville, Virginia. The service will be officiated by Brandon Dupont.

The family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made in Geneva's memory to Northside Baptist Church of Bassett at 8911 Fairystone Park Hwy, Bassett, VA 24055.