Martha Ann Steptoe

February 20, 1938 – June 17, 2025

Martha Ann Steptoe was born on February 20, 1938, in Luray, Virginia, to the late George Broaddus and Mabel Taylor Broaddus. She began her education in Luray and later graduated from Carlisle High School in Pennsylvania.

Martha was united in marriage to James Royal Steptoe Jr. on September 2, 1956, in Washington, DC, he preceded her in death on January 1, 2024. A dedicated and hardworking individual, Martha took business and data processing courses and worked for the Data Center in Broadway, Virginia, and later at Aileen Clothing in Edinburg, Virginia. She concluded her professional career at Kennametal in New Market, Virginia, where she worked faithfully until her retirement in September 2002.

Martha was preceded in death by her beloved parents; her husband, James; her siblings, Hilda B. Enos, Cornelius “Buddy” Broaddus, Hazel B. Fields, Orene B. Dunmore, and George “Mickey” Broaddus; and her son, Michael J. Steptoe.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Pamela Steptoe of Washington, D.C.; daughter Christie R. Thornton and son-in-law Richard T. Thornton of Waynesville, Missouri; and her sister-in-law, Edith Butler of New Market. Martha was a proud grandmother to Jaime Royal Owens and Katherine Elisabeth Steptoe, and a cherished great-grandmother to Michaela and Miles Steptoe. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom she held close to her heart, as well as her longtime friend and gardening sidekick, Jay Viands.

Martha found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid gardener, especially known for her delicious homemade relish and pickles. A passionate birdwatcher, she spent many peaceful hours enjoying the variety of birds that visited her feeders while enjoying coffee and licorice which fueled her superpowers.

All who knew her will deeply miss Martha’s kindness, strength, and love.

The family will receive friends from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, at Manor Memorial United Methodist Church in New Market.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 27, at the church by the Rev. Stephen Creech.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Market Fire and Rescue, P.O. Box 245, New Market, VA 22844.

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