Martha Jane Kerley Johnson

On Wednesday evening, November 12, 2025, after years of health challenges, Martha Johnson, age 78, of Taylorsville, NC, peacefully left her earthly home and was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, her Savior.

Known affectionately as Martha Jane by family and friends, she was born on May 19, 1947, in Caldwell County, NC, to the late Kenneth and Florrie Kerley. She was raised in the Ellendale Community, where she learned the value of serving others through her family’s example. Martha was a devoted member of East Taylorsville Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School for years and faithfully served on the hospitality committee.

A 1965 graduate of Taylorsville High School, Martha went on to complete the Certified Medical Assistant program at Catawba Valley Technical Institute in 1967. She then began a 34-year career as a CMA, first working alongside Dr. Walter N. Long and later, Dr. Russell Faulkenberry at Family Care Center, where her dedication and compassion touched many lives.

In 1991, Martha started a catering business: Sisters 2 Catering which she co-owned with her sister Patsy Stewart. Martha was an avid reader and was well-known for her delicious cakes and cookies. She loved to bake and cook and was happiest when she was making a meal or dessert for her family or other loved ones.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents, Perry Kenneth Kerley and Florrie Rogers Kerley; her brother, Doug Kerley; and her beloved husband of 43 years, Barry G. Johnson.

Those left to cherish her memory include her three daughters: Hannah Johnson Nance (Jeff) of Conover, Maria Johnson Weatherman of Statesville, and Leah Johnson Barnes (Preston) of Hiddenite; her grandchildren, Mason Nance, Miley Nance, Bryce Weatherman, and Owen Barnes; and her siblings: Patsy Stewart (Lanny), Roger Kerley (Carole), Guy Kerley (Connie), Sharon Clanton (Ralph), and Robin Jones (Ronnie), and cherished sister-in-law, Jan Kerley. She is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends in the East Taylorsville Baptist Church sanctuary on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:45 am, with a Celebration of Life service following at 12:00 pm, with Rev. Kevin White officiating. A private burial ceremony will be held at the Mt. Herman Baptist Church Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alexander Hospice, 50 Lucy Echerd Lane, Taylorsville, NC 28681.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Alexander Funeral and Cremation Service.

Condolences may be sent to www.alexfuneralservice.com