Mrs. Martha Wilson Barnes

WHITAKERS – Martha Wilson Barnes, age 73, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025.  Born in Nash County, NC on November 3, 1951, she was the daughter of the late Robert Lewis Wilson and Evelyn Louise Thompson Wilson.  She was also preceded in death by her husband of 34 years and best friend, Orvin Ollie Barnes, whom she missed dearly.

Martha was known by many names, MamaBarnes to Paige, Grandma to Baby Joey, and Coot to her family and friends.  She proudly served as a registered nurse at Nash UNC Health Care for over 25 years, including time in the critical care unit, where her steady hands and compassionate heart brought comfort to countless patients and families.  A faithful member of Lighthouse Baptist Church, she gave generously of her time, whether through church fundraisers, outreach efforts, or simply offering a listening ear and open heart to anyone in need.  Known for her warmth, selflessness, and unwavering hospitality, Martha always put others before herself.  In her final days, she thoughtfully handed out Mother’s Day rose bushes to those around her—knowing she may not see that special day herself yet still wanting to make others feel seen and loved.  That same loving spirit was especially evident in the way she embraced her daughter-in-law, Paige.  Martha became a guiding presence in Paige’s life, offering motherly care and support that left a lasting impact.  Her love extended even to her cherished canine companion, Harley, who was not only deeply loved by the family, but also known throughout the community for bringing comfort and joy to others as they also visited nursing homes in the area.  Harley and Martha were familiar faces at Wheeler & Woodlief, where their visits were a source of joy and peace to both staff and the families they served.

Martha is survived by her sons, Robert “Jason” Barnes and family and Thomas “Joey” Barnes, Sr. and wife, Paige, not just a wife to her son, but the daughter she never had; with a special bond that could not be broken; her grandson, Thomas “Baby Joey” Barnes, Jr.; her siblings, Sheila Jarillo and husband, Mundo, Betty Pridgen and husband, Lonnie, Gilliam Wilson and wife, Kathy,  not just a sister-in-law to Martha but a sister and beloved friend and Debbie Wilson; many nieces and nephews; her special friends “her girls” as she called them, Nancy and Maebell; and her canine companion, Harley.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Martha’s life will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Lighthouse Baptist Church, 1703 Reges Store Road, Nashville, NC  27856 with Pastor Wayne Sullivan officiating.  Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park.  The family will receive friends and relatives on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made in Martha’s memory to Lighthouse Baptist Church, PO Box 7304, Rocky Mount, NC  27804.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804.  You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.