Betty Joyce Martin

Betty Joyce Martin 81, died on February 24, 2019. She was born on July 13, 1937 in Daisy, Arkansas to Jessie Levi Simmons and Esther Valerie Simmons. She was the ninth of 13 children. Betty is survived by three children, Rhonda Martin Dick and her husband Ken, Cathy Nanette Martin, Roger Ferrill Martin and his wife Becky. She has two grandchildren, Asa Bryce Martin and Drake Ferrill Martin. She is preceded in death by her husband, George Ferrill Martin. Betty fully enjoyed life; she enjoyed people – and people enjoyed her, especially her quick wit. She was a true and genuine friend to all those who knew her. She was particularly fond of sending note cards, for any and all occasions. Her cards expressed her unique wisdom and care, in ways that only she could convey. Betty loved gardening and tending her beautiful flowers. She enjoyed her family, and her community. Betty was a member of the Clarendon United Methodist Church, where she waited "patiently" for the Sunday sermon to be over so she could make it home in time for the football game kickoff. She was a dedicated Razorback fan, and she shared this passion with her beloved son-in-law, Ken. They debriefed every Hawg game on the phone immediately following the final buzzer. Peyton Manning was her favorite football hero. She adored him, mainly because she saw him as humble. Betty was infinitely humble, herself. From very humble beginnings, she achieved great things in life. Together with her husband, she raised a family and built a successful farm, against all odds. She was "Boss Lady" – the heart and soul of the family farm. Betty was fond of spending family bonding time with her children at the Mississippi casinos. Video poker was her game. It was her gift. She was known for hitting more royal flushes (and 4 aces, with a kicker) than anyone ever should. The family wishes to express sincere appreciation and gratitude to her primary physician Dr. Chris Morgan of the Stuttgart Medical Clinic, and to the caring staff of Hospice Home Care in Little Rock. A Celebration of Life and Memorial service will be held at a later date to be announced. The family requests that donations in her memory be made to the Clarendon First United Methodist Church, 121 North 3rd St., Clarendon, Ark. 72029