Martha Alice Coppley Stokes

August 9, 1939 - September 16, 2020

Martha Alice Coppley Stokes was released from this life, surrounded by family, on September 16, 2020. Family, both past and present, was her most valued treasure. Martha had the unique ability to welcome any and all into her home and into her heart. Many of her children’s friends passed through her back door over the years, and now lovingly claim Martha as their second mother. Martha was born in Lexington, North Carolina on August 9, 1939 to George Franklin Lee Coppley and Lena Mae Fritts. She had many cherished memories of her childhood, living close to grandparents and enjoying farm life. She spent many hours exploring wide open spaces and enjoying the fresh country air. Martha loved her time spent with her older siblings, Vetis and Bob. Her dad lovingly nicknamed her “Punkin”, which followed her throughout her life. The bond with her sister, Vetis, developed into a lifelong friendship. Martha attended Linwood School from first through twelfth grades. She was active in theater, yearbook, student council, and served as Senior Class President. She was captain of the girls’ basketball team. She always loved a good game of basketball, whether she was playing or observing. Her classmates became dearest of friends for more than seventy years. They have stayed in touch with frequent reunions, phone calls, cards, and letters. After high school graduation, Martha attended Jones Business College. She had a desire to study art which manifested itself in many aspects of her life including; decorating, tea parties with her grandchildren, event planning; such as wedding receptions, reunions, and family parties. She was the heart of her family and established many traditions that have become her legacy. She always found a cause for celebration. She was known for her graceful hands, beautiful complexion, and elegant penmanship. She was notorious for compiling endless lists of things to do. She was a true Southern Belle at heart. She always looked forward to visiting her beloved North Carolina. Martha met her future husband, Don, on a blind date. While Don was on leave from the Navy and Martha was a senior in high school, they eloped on Christmas Eve 1956. When Don was discharged from the Navy, he and Martha made their home in Lexington, North Carolina where they welcomed the first three of seven children. In 1967, they packed up their family and made the two thousand mile trek across country to Orem, Utah where Don continued his education. Three more children joined the family. Don and Martha were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on November 10, 1967. What was supposed to be a 3 year stay in Orem before moving back to the south, turned out differently than planned. Utah would become a permanent home. They have called Spanish Fork, Utah home since 1970. They were blessed with their last child there. Martha was blessed to be a mother and homemaker for her family. In turn, her family was blessed as well by her loving efforts. Martha was involved in all auxiliaries of the Church during her life. Her favorite calling for many years was that of Young Women President. She influenced and taught many young women during her service. She developed many relationships that she held dear and many have continued. Martha felt an urgency to complete as much family history as was possible. Much time on the internet and years of walking through Southern cemeteries searching for ancestors gave her much satisfaction, purpose, and success. Martha greatly loved the Savior and had a strong testimony, which she cherished. She wanted nothing more than to see her family walk in righteousness. She delighted in each family member and their endeavors. Her family finds comfort in knowing her mind and body have been released from their earthly confinements. She was greatly looking forward to her reunion with family, friends, her son, Devin, and baby brother, George. Our hearts find peace in knowing those reunions are taking place. Martha is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Lena Coppley; her eldest brother, Robert Coppley; her sister, Vetis Rummage; her baby brother, George Franklin Coppley; and her youngest son, Devin Stokes. She is survived by her loving husband, Don, who has provided dedicated care. She is also survived by children; Angie (Clay) Nielsen, Derek (Sandra) Stokes, Lane (Shannon) Stokes, Gia (Kenny) Jacobson, Susan (Paul) Anderson, Cory (Jackie) Stokes, and daughter-in-law; Teresa Freeman. She loved and supported 43 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. Our family wishes to thank Craig and the staff of Hearthstone Manor and the staff of Active Hospice, especially her nurse, Sasha, for their excellent care. A public viewing will be held on Tuesday morning, September 22 from 9-10:30 A.M. at the Spanish Fork South Stake Center building located at 870 East Canyon Road. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, September 22 at 11:00 A.M. at the Spanish Fork City Cemetery. With restrictions due to the Covid19 pandemic and heat of the day, we request you bring a chair and umbrella and follow safe distancing advisory. Funeral services are being provided by Premier Funeral Services, Orem