News Summary
Martha Ann Edwards West, a cherished matriarch of the West family, passed away at the age of 91 in Greenville, South Carolina, following an extended illness. Born in 1934, she was known for her deep love for her family and active community involvement. Martha’s legacy includes her two children and grandchildren who will remember her unwavering dedication and connection to family, church, and friends. Funeral services are scheduled for May 21, 2025.
Greenville, SC – Martha Ann Edwards West, a cherished matriarch of the West family, passed away on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the age of 91 in Greenville, South Carolina, following an extended illness. Her legacy will be remembered by many, including her two children, William Douglas “Jay” West Jr. and Julie Edwards West, as well as her grandchildren.
Born on February 18, 1934, in Fountain Inn, SC, Martha was the daughter of Ralph Richard Edwards and Nancy Mildred “Nan” Usher Edwards. She was predeceased by her siblings, Nancy E. Thomason, R. Richard Edwards, Jr., and Mary E. Smith, along with her first husband, George DeKalb Martin. Throughout her life, Martha maintained strong connections with her family, which included her grandparents, John Tally and Eliza Jane Bennett Usher and John and Callie Edwards.
Martha was an honor student at Fountain Inn High School, graduating in 1951 before attending Converse College. She began a lifelong partnership with her husband, William Douglas “Doug” West, when they married on Valentine’s Day in 1960 at Trinity United Methodist Church. Their relationship flourished after being introduced by a mutual friend, Tommy Greer, in autumn 1959 during their involvement at Texize. Their romance ignited with their first date at a Clemson football game, with the couple continuing to support the Clemson Tigers throughout their lives.
The West family was an integral part of Martha’s identity. Martha was not only a devoted mother but also took an active role in her children’s education and extracurricular activities while ensuring memorable family dinners. Known for her love of entertaining, Martha enjoyed arranging flowers and planning engaging Clemson tailgates, particularly during her children’s college years. Her enthusiasm for community and connection extended to her interest in playing bridge, a pastime that allowed her to forge lasting friendships.
Martha’s family shared many treasured moments during their annual vacations at Litchfield Beach, as well as through extensive travel with Doug during and after his career. Her fondness for jewelry, often gifted by Doug, complemented her social presence, which also included participation in gatherings called “Wing Dings.” Furthermore, Martha was active in her post-golf dinner activities as a member of the “Silver Blades” at Thornblade Club.
The church played an influential role in the West family’s life. Martha offered her time and talent through various ministries, serving as a choir member and Trustee at Northside UMC, St. Francis Episcopal Church, Aldersgate UMC, and Buncombe Street UMC.
Martha is survived by her children, Jay and Julie, along with a grandson, William Douglas “Doug” West III, and a granddaughter, Jane Elizabeth “Janie” West. She is also remembered by many nieces and nephews, reflecting the deep familial connections she fostered throughout her life. Her unwavering love and dedication to her family remain evident in the hearts of those she touched.
Funeral services for Martha will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Buncombe Street Methodist Church, with a private burial to follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum. Family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Clemson University’s Lillian and Robert Utsey Chamber Music Endowment, Meals on Wheels, or any charity of choice.
Fond memories and condolences for the West family can be shared online at www.mackeywoodlawn.com.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Shirley Chandler
- Wikipedia: James Schnaiter
- Dignity Memorial: Jack Plating
- Google Search: Martha Ann Edwards West
- Post and Courier: Deidra Burnett
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Martha Ann Edwards
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
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