Martha Sams Russell

Martha Jane Sams Russell, 93, of Asheboro, passed away Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Asheboro Rehab and Healthcare Center in Asheboro.

A celebration of life service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, Asheboro, with her grandson, Nathan McCrorey, officiating.

Born on January 25, 1932, in Parkersburg, WV, Martha was the daughter of the late Calvin Sams and Mildred White Sams. With the support of her parents, she graduated high school and earned her business degree. She went on to serve honorably in the U.S. Navy and traveled the world. She became an accountant for Stedman apparel and later for SaraLee/Hanes Corp. After retiring at 70, she focused on reading about the world and taking care of her loved ones.

In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her daughter, Wanda Russell Valdez-Cruz; and her sister, Wilma Sams Moore.

Surviving are her daughter, Joyce McCrorey (Brian); sister, Connie Sams Bryan; brother, Floyd Calvin "Bud" Sams, Jr.; grandchildren, Nathan Russell McCrorey, Marcos Valdez-Cruz, Marta Valdez-Cruz; great grandchildren, Aurora Finley and Isabella Finley.

The family will receive friends following the service at Ridge Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.