Martha Barrett Thompson

Martha Barrett Thompson, 89, of Halifax, VA passed away peacefully August 7, 2018 in her home in the loving company of her son, Paul.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter David Thompson and her brother, Paul Bruce Barrett Jr.  She is survived by her son, Paul David Thompson, and his wife, Dana Niblack, of New York, NY and many friends and family.

Martha was born on December 19, 1928 in Abingdon, VA to Paul and Lucy Barrett.  She received her Bachelor’s in Education from James Madison University and her Master’s in Education from what is now Longwood University.  Martha taught for 35 years in Halifax County, including at the Halifax County High School and Volens Elementary.  She was an active member in many education-related organizations including the NEA, the VA Education Association, the Halifax Education Association, where she served as Treasurer in 1988, as well as Phi Delta Kappa, the US professional organization for educators, and the Delta Kappa Gamma Society for leading women educators, where she held various offices during her teaching career.  She also served on the Board of Directors of the Halifax County Association of Mental Health and of the Young Homemakers of Virginia.

Following her retirement, she enjoyed traveling with friends and volunteering at the South Boston - Halifax County Museum of Fine Arts & History.  An avid reader, she maintained an extensive library ranging from the latest fiction to local history, poetry, gardening, and many, many cookbooks. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church and also attended services at Beth Car Church with friends.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her loving and devoted caregivers, Alice Bennett, Vera Hudson, and Elva Wallace.

The family will receive friends at her Halifax home on Friday, August 10,^, 2018 from 6 to 8pm.  A graveside service will be held Saturday, August 11, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. at Halifax Memorial Gardens with the Rev. Dr. Eldridge Cullum IV officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the South Boston - Halifax County Museum or your local public library.