Martha Ann Cole

Martha Cole (91) passed away peacefully at home in Pleasantville, IA surrounded by family and loved ones on September 27, 2023, after sustaining a series of strokes.

There will be a celebration of life on Sunday, October 15^th at 1 p.m. at Marion County Park in shelter # 3 by the covered bridge. Family and friends are welcome to come together to share memories as we listen to her favorite music and scriptures. We will rejoice in the life that she led. Her favorite flowers carnations, and other flowers may be sent for her celebration of life and donations may be sent to family to be used for a memorial bench and tree where her memory will be preserved.

She was born in the hills of Powell Valley on October 20, 1931, to James Franklyn Evans and Nellie Marlow. She kept her heritage with her- speaking fondly of her coal-mining hometown. Being baptized in the river behind Red Hill Church in Speedwell. Always reminding her family that you don’t need money to be wealthy. Humble beginnings create a life full of beauty.

As a homemaker, Martha raised her children and foster children, took in any stray animal her children brought home, and volunteered reading and sewing for the Veterans Affairs in Knoxville, IA. She went on to be the most loving grandma and great grandma to her many offspring. Offering her wisdom and well-earned advice, many people looked up to her as a matron and friend.

Martha was a strong independent soul who never ceased surprising loved ones with her resilience to move forward in life with grace despite life's adversity.

She opened her home for anyone to gather. Celebrations and holidays were filled with love and laughter. She enjoyed reading, fishing, camping, and traveling around the United States where she would take rocks off the ground as cherished souvenirs.

She is reunited in death with the love of her life Daniel Cole, her children Paula Cory, Rick Barnett, Shirley Hines, Debbie Amos, and her parents James Evans, and Nellie Marlow Evans. As well as her beloved siblings Kenny, Glen, and J.L. Evans, Kathrine Fannon, and Melda Wiggins.

Her memory will live on through the life of her surviving family. Her children Marvin [Stacey] Barnett, Pat [Teddy] Tholen, Pam [Don] Adams, Anita [Michael] Brown, Chrissy [Rodney] Lampman. As well as her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who loved her dearly.