Martha E. Swann , 92, of Houston, passed away January 21, 2012. Born on August 10, 1919 in Gatesville, TX, she was the daughter of the late George Marion and Mickey Bone. On December 25, 1937, she married Woodrow Swanner, who preceded her in death in 1984. She was a devoted wife, nurturing mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was a member of Garden Oaks Baptist Church, a Past Matron of Ransford Chapter #135, Order of the Eastern Star, and a volunteer in the O.E.S. Handicraft Center at M.D. Anderson Hospital where she assisted patients with handicraft activities. She was an accomplished seamstress. Martha loved her friends, her family and inspired everyone she met with her cheerfulness, keen sense of humor and effervescent personality. She loved life and gave thanks daily for her many blessings. She will be greatly missed by those whose lives she touched, for her thoughtfulness of others and the values she exemplified. She will remain treasured in our hearts forever. Surviving are 2 daughters and their husbands: Glenda and Richard Foust of Harrisonburg, VA., Jeanne and A.J. Davis of Houston, and son James David Swanner of Austin, TX. Her grandchildren who will also serve as pallbearers: Lisa Carley Dale, Nashville, TN., Jenna Lynn Busch, Queen Creek, AZ., Kirk Davis, Houston, James Roy Davis, Austin, TX, Randall Davis, Katy, TX, and Glenn Scott, Sealy, TX; and 9 great grandchildren. She also leaves her beloved cat Sonny Boy, who was a great comfort to her, in the care of her grandson Randall Davis. The family will receive friends Friday, January 27 from 6:00 until 8:00p.m. at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home, 13001 Katy Fwy, Houston. The service will be held on Saturday, January 28, at 3 p.m., in the Memorial Oaks Funeral Home Chapel, followed by interment next to her beloved husband. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Shriners Hospital for Children, 6977 Main, Houston, TX. 77030.

Published in Houston Chronicle on January 26, 2012