Martha Ann Ross Johnson was born May 14, 1937, in Rutherford County, N.C., and departed this life Thursday, Aug. 27, 2009, at Robin Johnson Hospice House, Dallas, N.C.

Martha was the daughter of the late Mary Ross Haynes and Buddy Twitty. She joined Second Calvary Baptist Church, where she participated in Sunday School, Bible study and was a dedicated member of the Senior Women's Ministry.

Martha was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and was affectionally known to many as "Scottie." She truly loved the Lord and served Him with gladness, praised Him with her whole heart and was a mighty Prayer Warrior. Martha served as first lady of Center Baptist Church, Gastonia, N.C., for 15 years; Bethany Baptist Church, Bessemer City, N.C., for 11 years; and Young Grove Baptist Church in Blacksburg for five years.

She leaves to cherish her memories her husband of 47 years, the Rev. David J. Johnson of the home; a daughter, Minister Donna J. Hancock (Darron) of Gastonia, N.C.; four sons, John Ross (Shelia) of Fort Mill, Darrin Keith Johnson (Fernestia) of Gastonia, the Rev. David Anthony Johnson (Marsha) and Dennis James Johnson of Atlanta, Ga..; two sisters, Margaret Williams of Charlotte and Betty Jean Adams of Newark, N.J.; a brother, Billy Ross of New Jersey; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Services will be held Wednesday, Sept. 2, at 2 p.m. at Second Calvary Baptist Church in Charlotte with the Rev. Ralph McCormick officiating. Body will lie in state from 1 p.m. until hour of service.

The family can be contacted at the home, 9800 Field Bank Drive, Charlotte.

Arrangements by Costner Funeral Home, 2425 West Franklin Blvd., Gastonia, N.C.

(Courtesy of Foster Funeral Home of Gaffney.)