Birth date: Jun 1, 1925 Death date: Jun 25, 2020
Dr. Martha Frances Strawn Iley, 95, was promoted to the Church Triumphant on June 25, 2020 at her beloved home and surrounded by her family. Classical musician, wife and matriarch, philanthropist, hostess, academician, teacher, ar Read Obituary
Martha and my Mother Inez Dellinger Ashton were old friends (and cousins) from the days in Bladen County. I remember a visit to the Strawn home in Marshville in the ‘50s. She was always very sweet to my brother Kirk and I. It is sad to see these wonderful family members pass on. -Kent Ashton, Concord
We lived across the street from the Ileys from 1971-1973. They were great neighbors. Martha was a very nice lady and great musician. She and my mom shared a friendship and a love of music.
Martha was truly a loving, caring person who used her gift of music to minister to individuals of varying ages, needs, healthcare and residential settings, May God bless her memory!
Martha was such a sweet and talented lady. Every Christmas the staff at Providence look forward to receiving a poinsettia from her. She always had the labels ready for us and liked to pick out the specific plant for each individual.
Martha is a Charter Member at Providence. She loved telling stories about the early days of the founding of Providence.
Godspeed Martha! We love you and you will be greatly missed.
Your sister in Christ,
Martha H.
Martha was on the music committee that brought me to Providence Baptist as Church Organist and Music Associate in 1995. She was always so sweet and supportive during the 8 years I served at Providence, and I will always treasure the MMM programs because it was such an honor to play under her direction and leadership. Several months ago, my husband, Jim, and I drove to Charlotte from Columbia, SC and had lunch with Martha and Sarah Watson. We were so pleased to see that she was still as pretty and sweet as ever, and still had that remarkable sense of humor! How we will miss her!
Pat Long
