Martha Jean Thomas

Martha Jean Kelley-Thomas, 89, of Sistersville, passed away on September 5, 2025.

She was born in Salem on October 27, 1935, to the late Orval Waldo and Versie Marie Nicholson Kelley. Martha was a 1953 graduate of Salem High School. She attended the First Baptist Church of Sistersville where she served as treasurer for many years and was a life member of the Order of the Eastern Star, long-serving as her chapter’s secretary. She worked for Bell Chevrolet for over 30 years as Office Manager. Martha was an excellent cook, candy maker, and was proficient in all forms of needlework throughout her life. She was in the loving care of Rada Weekley and her caring staff in the later stages of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 41 years, David “Joe” Thomas whom she married on June 21, 1953, along with three sisters, Betty Casey, Peggy Judy and Virginia Pullin and five brothers, Ben, Orrville “Jr.,” Oscar “Bud,” Robert “Bob” and C. James “Jim.”

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer “Jan” Surface, Parkersburg, WV, son-in-law Jim Surface of Sistersville, and grandchildren, Tracy (Curtis) Heintzman of Sistersville, and Bryan (Lauren) Surface of Lake Mary, Florida, and six great-grandchildren, Ralynn, Cade, Drayk and Ayvi Heintzman and Adeline and Jameson Surface, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Martha will be laid to rest in Greenwood Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Myers Funeral Home.