On Sunday, March 28, 2021, God in His Infinite Wisdom saw fit to call from labor to reward Mother Bessie L. Martin. Born in Virginia on May 26, 1932, the daughter of the late Robert Lee Dillard and the late Alice Moyer Dillard.

In addition to her parents, Mother Martin was preceded in death by her husband, Bishop Edward C. Martin; one brother, Joe Dillard; and her son-in-law, Herbert Wilson.

Mother Martin was a member of Saint Paul Holiness Church, Axton, VA, where she served as the former first lady of the church, and the Mother of the church.

Mother Martin leaves to cherish her memory, one son, Elder Edward L. (Debra) Martin of Martinsville, VA; one daughter, Betty Wilson of Axton, VA; four grandchildren, Sonya Wilson of Axton, VA, Ron (Misty) Wilson of Dallas, TX, Brandon (Marci) Martin of Costa Mesa, CA, and Brennon Martin of Long Beach, CA; four great-grandchildren, Jordan Martin of Costa Mesa, CA, and Breyden Martin of Signal Hill, CA, Cameron O'rion Wilson and Coi Cadence Wilson both of Dallas, TX; three brothers, Deacon Johnny Dillard, Elder Robert Dillard, and Deacon Jessie Dillard all of Axton, VA; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, church family, and friends.

Funeral services for Mother Bessie L. Martin will be held on Saturday, April 3, 2021 at 2 p.m. at the Saint Paul Holiness Church, Axton, VA, with Elder Edward L. Martin, Eulogist, and Elder Barry Dillard, Officiating. A public viewing will be held on Friday, April 2, 2021 at Hairston Funeral Home between the hours of 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. In accordance with the CDC, a face covering and social distancing is required. All other times, the family will be receiving friends at the home of her daughter, Betty Wilson, 1067 Martin Lane, Axton, VA. Burial will follow at the Saint Paul Holiness Church Cemetery.

To view live streaming of the service, go to Hairston Funeral Home's Facebook page, then click on the service.

Hairston Funeral Home is serving the Martin family.