Martha Franklin Blanchard

Martha Franklin Blanchard, 84, of Morganton, NC, passed away Wednesday, January 18, 2023.

Born in Burke County, NC on September 6, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Hugh Franklin and Emmie Whisnant Franklin. Martha enjoyed working and taking care of the residents she cared for. She also drove a truck with her husband for a few years. Mrs. Blanchard was an inspiration to others and was very much a fireball. She was a sweet, loving person.

Martha is survived by her sister, Betty Sue Allen; daughters, Terri Lynne Taylor and Isma Takcs; sons, Floyd Henry Blanchard, III and Arthur Blanchard; grandson, Timothy C. and Tyler D. Norris; granddaughter, Leslie Paige Ross; great-grandson, Hayden Dwayne Chapman; a special nephew she loved as her own son, Stephen Edward Franklin; special niece, Kathy Mulwee Finley (Rick); and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Henry Blanchard, Jr.; son, Dwayne Edward Ross; sisters, Gladys Vaughn, Ruby Propst, Nellie Carswell, Bessie Mulwee, and Rosalie Franklin; and brothers, Carl Franklin and James “Bo” Franklin.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 6 p.m., Monday, January 23, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home. The memorial service will follow at 6 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel of the funeral home.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.