Martha B. Smith-Grantham

Martha B. Smith-Grantham was called home on May 26, 2021, at Baptist East Hospital in Memphis, Tenn., surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 17, 1941, in Holly Springs, MS and was the only daughter of 10 children born to the late Mattie and Elijah Hearn.

She accepted Christ at an early age at Strawberry Missionary Baptist Church in Holly Springs and was a faithful member of Promise Land Church of God in Christ in Memphis.

Mrs. Smith-Grantham was a Certified Nurses Assistant at Shelby County Nursing Home retiring after 25 years. Her faith was reflected every single day through her gratitude and care that she gave to her family, friends, her patients and the children in her community that she freely and selflessly took in and supported. The seemingly permanent smile that graced her face served as a continuing reminder of her big heart that brightened the lives of family, friends and strangers alike.

Affectionately known as "Big Mama", she is survived by four devoted children, Martha Henderson (Nathaniel), Aaron Smith, Eva Smith-Graham (Carlton), and Spenser Smith; one Goddaughter, Opal Mayes (Alphonso) all of Memphis. She is also survived by her only living brother, Roy Hearn of Holly Springs and 17 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, 17 great-great-grandchildren; four aunts, four uncles and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Aaron Smith; and her second husband, LT Grantham; one son, Ivy Joe Smith; eight brothers, Will Henry, Purcell, Oscar Lee, Leroy "Bob", Clem, Elijah and baby Hearn, and Willie B. Ingram.

Services were held on June 5, 2021, at Promise Land COGIC in Memphis with her Pastor Carl Williams officiating. She was buried in the Hearn family section of the Yarbrough Chapel CME Church Cemetery in Holly Springs.

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