Mary Zeola Pharr Martinez, 101, of Statesville, N.C., passed away Sunday, February 7, 2021, at Gordon Hospice House. Born in Iredell County on January 11, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Denver Clyde Pharr and Fannie Bennett Pharr.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by sisters, Alene Adams and Katherine White; brothers, Roy Pharr, Rev. Harold Pharr, Jimmy Pharr, Rev. Bill Pharr and Flake Pharr; and one step-daughter, Leslie King.

Mary was a member of Northview Wesleyan Church, where she a member of the Adult Choir, the Wesley Sunday School Class, and she was a former prayer chain coordinator.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, whom she married on November 28, 1968, Richard John Martinez; daughter, Kay (John) Whitfield; step-daughter, Laurie Elzey; granddaughter, Lisa Green; and great-granddaughters, Chelsea Green and Dakota Howard. She is furthered survived by five step-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild.

A graveside service was held at Iredell Memorial Gardens on Thursday, February 11, 2020 at 3 p.m. with the Rev. Brad Pharr officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Northview Wesleyan Church, 283 Shumaker Drive, Statesville, NC, 28625

Thoughts of love and comfort may be left at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com.

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is serving the family.