Martha Wooten Spence

Martha Jane Wooten Spence, a cherished soul, died peacefully in her sleep Augusta 12, 2023, at 5:57 PM. As she took her final breath, her nephew, John Spence, held her in his prayers, a testament to the deep love that surrounded her. Martha’s journey began on February 20, 1939, in Mocksville Township, Davie County, State of North Carolina, born to William H. Wooten and Gladys Steelman Wooten. Left to treasure her memory are her stepdaughter, Laura J. Spence, and step-granddaughter, Jessica M Spence, along with her devoted niece, Anita McKinney. Martha’s legacy also lives on through her cousins, Frankie Beaman, Lou Ann Campbell, Anita Wooten, Ariel Snyder, Stephanie, Crystal Corriher, Sarah Henry, Jane Steelman, Anna Steelman, Sherry Young, Wanda Henry, Sammy Eads, Susan Johnson, Debbie Steelman, and Janice Steelman. Cherished friends, Leny Emich, Margie Emich, and Uta Shervin. The loving care provided by William and Annie Davis in her final year and days demonstrated the depth of the connections that she had fostered. Martha was predeceased in death by her beloved husband, Attorney Charles Wilson Spence, her sister Patricia W. Barker, stepsons Steven R. Spence and Edward D. Spence, stepdaughter Susan F. Spence, and step-grandson John W. Spence. Martha’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, as she faithfully attended New St. Luke Methodist Church in Travelers Rest, SC, and often found solace in the harmonious sounds of Grace Chrisitan Fellowship in Easley, SC, especially during their monthly bluegrass gospel music evenings. Her educational journey was marked by accomplishments, having graduated from Yadkinville High School in Yadkinville, NC, and later from Mitchell Community College in Statesville, NC. However, her greatest triumph was realized on February 23, 1978, when she became a Manpower Franchise Owner. Her path to entrepreneurship was paved with hard work and dedication, transitioning from a role in the Manpower Corporate Office in Greenville, SC. Her husband, Charles, supported her endeavors by overseeing the business side, allowing Martha to shine in sales and office management across the territories that she carefully nurtured. Martha’s warmth and kindness knew no bounds. An inspirational mentor, she guided countless individuals on their journeys to success. Her radiant smile and open-hearted nature made her a friend to all, for she welcomed everyone with open arms and stood ready to assist in any way possible. Reveling in the joy of family, Martha’s childhood was adorned with fond memories of playful moments. She and her cousins engaged in imaginative adventures, often emulating the cowboy legends of Roy Rogers, Dale Evans, and Gene Autry. A harmonious spirit herself, she fondly recalled gatherings with kin where guitars, banjos, violins, and harmonicas filled the air with melodies, a testament to the musical talents that ran in her families’ veins. The legacy of Martha Wooten Spence is deeply etched in the hearts of those who knew her. Her former employees including, Nate and Victoria Lauger, Martha Warren, Ann Clark, Pam Miles, Chad Cole, Stephanie Jenkins, April Mitchell, Kaylee Scritchfield, Mallory Leeth, Heather Wilson, Pam Davis, and Kelly Harrison, will forever carry the lessons she imparted and the wisdom she shared. In her absence her leadership and steadfast guidance will be profoundly missed. As we bid farewell to Martha, we remember her as beacon of love and compassion, a woman who shaped lives and left an indelible mark on the world around her. Her spirit will continue to inspire, and her memory will remain a cherished treasure in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. A memorial service will be held at The Howze Mortuary Chapel, 6714 State Park Rd., Travelers Rest on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. The family request that in lieu of flowers, please donate to Generations Group Home, P.O. Box 80009, Simpsonville, SC 29680. (864) 243-5557.

Martha Wooten Spence

February 20, 1939 - August 12, 2023