Martha Carr Obituary

Mrs. Martha Lowe Carr

July 20, 2025

JOHNSON CITY - Mrs. Martha Lowe Carr, 88, of Johnson City, passed away on July 20, 2025, after a long courageous battle with Parkinson's disease surrounded by her family. She was a native of Washington County, and resided in Central Community since 1961. She was a daughter of the late Roy Baxter Lowe and Sarah Ellen "Sally" Pierce Lowe. Mrs. Carr was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Wilbourne Joe Norman Carr, in 2011. In addition, her brothers Herman, Norman, Fleenor, and George, and sisters Marie Jones, and Amanda "Gert" Maupin, preceded her in death. In addition, she was preceded in death by two infant siblings, Carl and Letha.

She was a 1955 graduate of Science Hill High School in Johnson City, where she was a majorette and played the flute.

Mrs. Carr loved children and was employed by the Carter County School System as a substitute teacher at Central Elementary School for over 35 years. She truly believed every child was capable of learning and encouraged them to be the best person that he/she could be. While at Central Elementary, she participated in many volunteer activities to support the school, students, and the community.

Martha loved working in her flower garden and vegetable garden until her health no longer permitted her to do so. She enjoyed sharing her knowledge about growing flowers, fruits, and vegetables with her family and friends. One of her greatest joys was teaching her grandchildren and great-grandchild how to can vegetables and make homemade preserves.

She was a long-time member of Sinking Creek Baptist Church, Johnson City. She enjoyed cooking meals for the Wednesday night services, Homecoming, and other church activities. When she was no longer able to attend services in person, she loved watching services online.

Martha was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend. She enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Those left to cherish her memory include her sons, Darrell (Vicky) and Wayne (Ellen) Carr, and a daughter, Letha Carr. Grandchildren Megan, Hunter (Sara), and Matthew Carr, and great-grandson, Liam Griffin. Brother-in-law, Floyd Carr and sisters-in-law, Brenda Carr and Ann Lowe, special nephews Johnny Lowe and Keith Toth, nieces Karen Bowman and Elizabeth Perry. Several other nephews and nieces also survive. Special friends Nancy Verran, Susie Ellis, Robin Culler, Audrey Treadway, Helen Mathes, Ruth Davis, Leesha Whitstine.

The funeral service will be conducted Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in the Sanctuary of Sinking Creek Baptist Church, with Pastor Chuck Babb, officiating.

The family will receive friends Wednesday prior to the service from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the church.

Graveside committal service will be held Thursday at 10:30 A.M. in Carr Family Cemetery, 8 Downing Court, Johnson City, TN 37604. Those planning to attend may meet at the funeral home by 10:00 A.M. to proceed, or if more convenient, the cemetery. Active pallbearers will be Keith Toth, Marcus Carr, Don Verran, Scotty Verran, Tony Young, and Donnie Mitchell. Honorary pallbearers will be Hunter Carr, Matthew Carr, Liam Griffin, Johnny Lowe, Jimmy Hoilman, George Ellis, Keith Ellis, Ryder Verran, Bobby Roark, Greg Draper, and Mike Grindstaff.

The family would like to say a special thank you to Dr. James Hansen, and staff, and Amedisys Hospice, especially Megan and Heather.

Those who prefer to make donations in- lieu-of flowers may do so to Sinking Creek Baptist Church Kitchen fund, 2313 Elizabethton Hwy., Johnson City, TN 37601.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.appfh.net.

Appalachian Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Johnson City, is honored to serve the Carr family. (423)928-6111