Martha Short

“And God will wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there will be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying or fear, neither will there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.” Revelations 21:4

Martha Anne Short was born to James and Alma Law in 1941, in the town of Fort Lauderdale by the Sea, Florida. Martha resided the majority of her life with her husband Don in Jonesborough, Tennessee. Martha passed away peacefully from a brief illness on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Martha is preceded in death by her soul mate and loving husband of 63 years, Don Winston Short. Martha was the youngest of 13 children and was preceded in death by her mother and father, James and Alma Law, as well as 5 sisters; Marie, Mary, Margaret, Mildred and Margie, and also preceded in death by six brothers; Bill, Sonny, Larry, Ray, Junior and Arthur.

Martha is survived by a beautiful family that was so blessed to have her as a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Left to cherish Martha’s memory are her daughter, Terri Robbins (Dennis) of Gray, and two sons, David Short (Sandra) and Larry Short (Trish), both of Jonesborough.

Each of Martha’s children extended the love of family and blessed her with five precious grandchildren, Amanda Carrier (Nathan), Chris Robbins, Heather Richardson (Joey), Tyla Boyd (Jason) and Cody Robbins (Katelyn). Just when Martha thought she could not love one grandchild more than anyone else in the world, along came another level of pride and joy! Martha was blessed by great-grandsons, Blake and Logan Richardson and Colt Robbins, and great-granddaughters, Rhema Boyd and Emma Carrier.

Martha is also survived by one brother, Raymond Law, of Millersburg, Ohio; sister-in-law, Wilma Bralley, and a host of nieces and nephews whom Martha stayed connected with over many years and miles.

Martha enjoyed the company of so many special friends – she always committed to staying close to friends that she and Don met thru their many job experiences and church. Janice Clark was one of those special friends who became like a sister to Martha. Dan and Julie Maynard were precious neighbors who always assisted the family by keeping a watchful eye on Martha. Last, but not least, Martha will be missed by her beloved dog, Honey.

Martha and Don worked as owner/operators for several trucking companies. They were able to drive together and see so much of this beautiful country. Martha supported Don in his career endeavors and all the while never skipped a beat as being a Mother to her three children and doting on her grandchildren.

Martha loved life and had a contagious laugh. She was always ready for any family gathering and never forgot one of our birthdays. Being Mom, Mammaw, Mammaw Martha or Mammaw Clock was her mission in life. No matter the event and in spite of an ache or pain, she showed up to support, to share their happiness and to love all of her children and grandchildren. Martha taught her family well that ‘family’ was one of the most important things right next to her faith in Christ.

Martha’s children and grandchildren were involved and extended encouragement in whatever made Martha happy. Their mission, especially in the last 3 years, was to comfort her and always making sure she felt safe. Terri, David and Larry – you gave new life to this special verse:

“Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12

Terri, David and Larry, your full life will keep on giving life to your spouses, children and grandchildren.

Her children will rise up and call her blessed. Martha will be forever missed and loved by all who knew her.

Martha’s life will be celebrated at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, 117 E. Charlemont Avenue, Kingsport, Tennessee. Visitation will be on Friday, July 4, 2025, from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. with funeral at 2 p.m. Burial will follow immediately after the funeral at Harmony Community Cemetery, Harmony Road, Jonesborough, Tennessee.

Martha’s pastor, Steve Pate of Harmony Baptist Church, will be officiating Martha’s funeral along with Martha’s granddaughter, Tyla Boyd. Pallbearers will be Chris Robbins, Cody Robbins, Nathan Carrier, Joey Richardson, Dennis Robbins and Dan Maynard.

Special thanks to Kim Jackson, Social Worker for State of Franklin Healthcare Associates, and also thank you to the Amedisys Service team. Your support and encouragement to the family during this difficult time is so appreciated.