Martha Erves

Martha was a beloved child of God, whose life was filled with both joy and heartache. She came into the world on December 12, 1946, in Prichard, Alabama, welcomed by her loving parents, Zemary and Ike Conners, who have since passed away. Known affectionately as Mart, she was the proud eldest of four siblings. At just four years old, Mart embraced her role as a big sister to Genise. She continued to share her life with her brother Harry, who joined the family at age ten, and then her baby sister Jewel, who came along when Mart was twelve. Each of these precious relationships brought both beautiful memories and profound loss, as two of her siblings have now departed. When her family moved to Chicago during her childhood, a new chapter began. It was there that she met Sandford Jennings Sr., and they celebrated the birth of their handsome son, Sanford Jr. However, it was in 1970 that Mart met the love of her life, Jeffery Erves. Together, they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Monia. Although Jeffery and several family members have left this earthly realm, Martha’s enduring spirit and the love she shared with her family remain a powerful testament to resilience and the bonds that connect us all. Martha received her education from Gregory Elementary School and John Marshall High School. Martha embraced her faith in Christ from an early age, setting a strong foundation for her journey. This remarkable woman exemplified generosity and dedication, embodying the spirit of Proverbs 31:20. Martha began her spiritual journey at Unity Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, guided by the compassionate leadership of Reverend Theodore McFarland, Sr. She then became an integral part of True Foundation Missionary Baptist Church (Family Church) under C.L. Brookins. Ultimately, her lasting legacy was at Rock of Ages Baptist Church, where she devoted 28 years to the greeter committee, warmly welcoming all under the impactful leadership of Reverend Marvin E. Wiley. Her unwavering commitment and service inspire us all to be more engaged in our communities. Mart dedicated many years of her life as the lead dental assistant at DDS Korn Office, showcasing her commitment to helping others. Her final chapter was as a bus monitor with First Student Bus Company, where she brought joy and safety to countless children for over 10 years. In addition, her evenings at the Broadview Family Restaurant were filled with warmth and connection, highlighting her passion for service. Mart’s radiance and generosity profoundly impacted everyone she met, showcasing a delicate spirit that inspired countless lives. Throughout her journey, she excelled in her roles as a devoted daughter, sister, granddaughter, wife, mother, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend. Mart found empowerment in expressing herself through her fashion choices and her striking long nails. She discovered peace in the beauty of nature, often marveling at the wonders around her. As we gather for this final tribute to honor Mart’s memory, let us be inspired by her legacy and carry her spirit of love and joy with us always. We can find comfort in knowing that she is absent from this body but present with the Lord. On Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 12:21 PM, Mart embraced eternity, arriving home in Heaven, safe in Jesus’ arms, joined by Ms. Vinnie and Papa (her grandparents), Madea and Mr. Gus (her parents); husband, Jeff; brother, Harry; sister, Jewel; and other beloved family members. As we come together to honor Mart’s life, we are reminded of the incredible impact she had on everyone she met. Her unwavering legacy of love, kindness, and compassion serves as a powerful motivation for us to strive for greatness in our own lives. Mart leaves behind three devoted children, Sanford Conners (Kristina), Monia L. Conners, and Steven Robinson. She is also survived by her one sisters, Genise A. Conners; brotherin-love, Marlon Erves (Jacqueline); and sister-in-love, Vera Erves; grandchildren, Jamie S. Conners, Alexis Madura, Monjai M. Brown, Skyler Garrefa, and Raven C. Johnson; along with great-grandchildren, Zammound, Jr., Zammariah, and Bella Rae proudly carry on her vibrant spirit; niece, Zemary Conners Tabitha Conners; and nephews, Charles F. Thomas, Jr., and Warren L. Conners, Marlon Erves, Jr., cherish her memory deeply. Mart’s cherished friends—Cathy Fitch, Diane Edwards, Esther Carter, Thomas Wells, and Ms. Millie—will forever hold onto her warmth and generosity. Furthermore, she welcomed many bonus children into her heart, Rosea, Peter, Ricky Hester, Reginice McBride (Sherman), Romanie Randale (Keith), Darcell Burse, Alfreda Rogers, Cynthia Brown, Keith Sanders, and countless others. A special thanks to Evelyn Craig and Valerie Dixion. Mart’s remarkable life created lasting connections among family and friends alike. Her enduring spirit will encourage us all to lead our lives filled with love, compassion, and purpose.

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