Martha Rose Askins Anthony passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026 in Fultondale, AL. She was born on January 11 , 1935 in Calera, Alabama where she graduated from Calera High School and subsequently attended the University of Montevallo.

Martha was married to Reverend Leroy Anthony for over 60 years. She is survived by her children, Lee (Jen), Lynne Beard (Craig), Larry (Ron Mueller), and Scott (Donna); 14 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild. Martha had a large immediate and extended family and is also survived by her brothers and sisters: Beulah Fowler, William Askins (Beckey), Frank Askins (Jannette), Nancy Askins, and Sharon Parmer. She loved her in-laws, and is survived by Geraldine Hicks, Charlotte Patrick, and Gwen Anthony. Martha was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy; parents WR and Roselle Askins; brothers James and Bucky Askins; sister Glenda Wolaver; grandson Dakota Anthony; brothers-in-law Delmus Anthony, RL Anthony, John Fowler, Don Ed Hicks, Tommy Patrick, and Roy Hadaway; and sisters-in-law Frances Anthony, June Hadaway, Gayle Askins, and Tommie Anthony.

Martha's marriage to a pastor resulted in a lifetime of service to God in numerous locations throughout Central and Northwest Alabama. She was a master musician who could breathe life into a piano and ultimately played handbells with a chorale and as a soloist. She literally performed at thousands of church functions, special civic occasions, weddings, and funerals over 4 decades.

Martha taught piano to hundreds of students and passed on her love of music to all generations of the Anthony family. She will always be remembered for her ability to convey empathy and understanding to all who needed spiritual and emotional support and was equally famous for her renowned chicken salad, cheese date pastries, and divinity candy. Martha was a spokesperson for Jesus in all endeavors.

A Celebration of Martha's life will be held on June 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Collins-Burke Funeral Home in Jasper, AL. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Jasper's First Baptist Church Music Ministry, 1604 4th Ave S, Jasper, AL 35501.