Martha Nell Sowers of Elora, Tennessee passed this world to be with her Lord Jesus on
July 21, 2023. Martha was proud of her humble beginnings as a country girl being born on
September 23, 1933 to Noland Elbert and Mattie Lou (Brewer) Rutledge in Elora, Tennessee.
She remained a farmer’s daughter until she married her city boy, Donald Lee Sowers, and they
moved to Illinois in December 1951. While in Illinois, Martha had 5 children and found time to
drive a school bus for the Chicago area until her retirement. Martha and Don moved back to
Tennessee in June of 1993 to enjoy their life together. Martha spent much of her time was with
crafting. She was an expert at knitting, sewing, crocheting, woodworking, and ceramics to name
a few. However, her favorite pass time was reminiscing of the old times with family and friends.
Her laugh was infectious, her smile contagious, and the twinkle in her eyes were all signs of a
life full of joy and happiness. Martha is preceded in death by her parents Noland and Mattie
Rutledge, her husband of 50 years, Don Sowers; a daughter, Sue Gorman; son-in-law, Roger
Roeder; daughter-in-law, Lyn Sowers; and brother, Jesse Rutledge. Remaining to cherish her
memories here on earth are her daughter, Lou Ann (Emilio Jr. “Chief”) Zarate of Elora, TN, sons
David (Nancy) Sowers of Winchester, TN, Robert (Regina) Sowers of Ragland, AL, and Bryan
(Carin) Sowers of Hixson, TN. In addition to her children she also leaves behind two sisters and
a brother, Gladys Lee, Elnor Jo Walker, and Harry (Patsy) Rutledge all of Huntland. She was
blessed with 18 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. She also
leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. Also, she leaves her church family at Huntland
First Baptist Church where she was member. The Jasper Funeral Home is honored and
priviledged to serve the family during this time of sorrow. The services are to be held at the
Huntland First Baptist Church, 360 Main Street, Huntand, TN 37345 on July 23, 2023. .
Visitation for family and friends will be from 1:00 to 3:00 with the funeral immediately
following at 3:00 pm. Martha will be laid to rest beside by her beloved husband in the Moore
Memorial Cemetery in Huntland.