Martha Jo Heckathorne

Martha Jo (Brandon) Heckathorne, 88, passed away on February 8, 2016 in Sun City West, AZ. She is survived by her five sons: Daniel (Connie), David (Ann), John (Kim), Stephen (Kena), Phillip, and her only daughter Sarah. Martha is also survived by eleven grandchildren: Bethany (Brock), Bekah, Stephanie (Jim), Nathan, Kelsey (Jerod), Colby, Rylee, Brandon, Mason, Olivia and Lauren. Martha leaves behind four great-grandchildren: Colby, Caleb, Caitlyn, and Carleigh. Jim and Steph were excited to tell Grandma at Christmas there was another great grandchild on the way. She is also survived by a brother-in-law, Glenn Heckathorne.   Martha was preceded in death by her parents Clyde O. & Burleigh M. (Shannon) Brandon and her husband Reed Heckathorne. Reed and Martha were married 43 years before his death in 1994.   Martha was born in Paragould, AR on January 18, 1928 the only child of Clyde & Burleigh Brandon and continued to live there until 1934. At that time, her family moved to Phoenix. She graduated from Phoenix Union High School in 1945. Martha was an accomplished violinist who played in the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra for a number of years. She married Reed Heckathorne on April 15, 1950 and they made Phoenix their home until June of 1952, at which time they moved to a home that Reed had built in Lakeside, AZ. They resided there until Reed’s passing in 1994. Martha continued to live in Lakeside until her health required her to sell her home and move into an assisted living facility.   Martha was a Godly woman who put God and family first in all she did. She was instrumental in the startup of Bible Chapel Church and continued her ministry there for over 45 years. She was very active in all the activities at church through the years. She played her violin for special music, sang in the choir, taught Sunday school, led Bible School and held Bible study for various age groups. She was always willing to help in any way needed. Martha was an active supporter of all of her children’s activities: countless sporting events, band and choir programs, Cub Scout den mother and many more. She was deeply loved by all who knew her and will be remembered fondly by many for years to come. She will be greatly missed.   Visitation will be held Friday, February 12, 2016 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Owens Livingston Mortuary. The funeral is Saturday, February 13 at 11:00 am at Owens Livingston Mortuary. Graveside service to follow at the Show Low Cemetery. There will be a celebration of Martha’s life for family and friends at the Pavilion in Torreon following the graveside service.   Owens Livingston Mortuary of Show Low handled the arrangements.