Martha Carolyn Chesser, affectionately known as Marty, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2026, in Raleigh, North Carolina. She was 81 years of age. Marty was born on March 27, 1944, in Dumas, Arkansas, to Horace Greeley and Sarah Ellen Gasaway.

A proud graduate of Gould High School in 1962, Marty chose to continue her education at the University of Arkansas in Monticello. On June 3, 1962, she married the love of her life, Bobby Joe Chesser. With pride and devotion, she embraced her role as a wife, and homemaker. Marty found immense joy in seeing her family grow. She became the mother of a son and two daughters, served her family well, and endeavored to pass on her values and creativity to her children.

Marty was a woman whose hands were rarely still. She was known for her skill with needle and thread, musical talent, and bringing scenes to life through her painting in oils. With an eye for beautiful landscapes, she cultivated beautiful flower gardens. She was a wonderful cook and affectionately known as, "Queen of the kitchen."

A faithful servant of God, Marty's religious journey began in her childhood at the Dark Corner Christian Church. As an adult, she served as church pianist at Biscoe First Baptist Church and at Broadmoor Baptist Church in Brinkley. As an avid student of God's Word, she taught Sunday School and shared her faith with her community.

Marty's life was a testament to her strength, compassion, and enduring faith. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will be cherished by those she touched. Marty was preceded by her husband, Bobby Joe Chesser, and their son Wade, her parents, Greeley and Sarah Gasaway, brother Gaylon Gasaway, and sister Joy Knight.

She is survived by her daughters Julie Quarles (Chuck) of Franklinton, NC, Joy Patrick of Rogers, AR, brother Joe Gasaway (Nina) of Carlisle, AR, 10 grandchildren, Ty Chesser, Cassy Chesser, Rachael Engen (Josh), Emily Murrell (Josh), Hannah Vindigni (Johnny), Dylan Chesser (Michaela), Andrew Pinnow, Taylor Chesser, Josh Quarles (Chessie) and Claire Koning (Landon), 13 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

The family expresses their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers the family would like to suggest donations be made to the Wolfestreet Foundation https://app.theauxilia.com/pay/wolfestreet