Flora Jo Martin's Obituary
Flora Jo Martin, age 86, of Centerville, Iowa, passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024, at the MercyOne Long Term Care Facility in Centerville.
Flora Jo was born on January 14th, 1938, in Centerville, Iowa, the daughter of George and Alma (Miller) Bartle. Flora Jo attended Galesburg country school near Plano through the eighth grade and later graduated from Centerville High School in 1956. Flora Jo was married to Carl Gene Martin on March 20, 1957, at Drake Avenue Christian Church in Centerville.
Flora Jo worked for the Appanoose Telephone Company after graduation. In 1959 Flora Jo and Carl made their home on the county line of Wayne and Appanoose near Confidence. Later in 1961, they purchased a farm in Monroe County 7 miles south of Melrose where they lived until 1998. Flora Jo enjoyed farm life and was well known for being a great cook. Friends and family that helped on the farm were always treated to wonderful meals in their home or on many occasions spoiled by having Flora Jo personally deliver the meal to them in the field.
One of Flora Jo's passions was fashion. While on the farm she worked part time at both Stephanie's Fashions and Milady's Dress Shoppe on the square in Centerville. Whether helping pick out clothes or just visiting, Flora Jo thoroughly enjoyed her job, and her customers were sure to appreciate her profound sense of humor and infectious laugh.
After leaving the farm, Flora Jo and Carl moved to Centerville where they managed and maintained rental homes and apartments with Flora Jo overseeing the bookwork. It was during this time that Flora Jo acquired a Bichon puppy and named him Cotton. Cotton brought tremendous joy to her life and was by her side everywhere she went.
Flora Jo and Carl purchased a winter home and rentals in Casa Grande, Arizona where they loved to escape the cold and spend time with new friends and neighbors. They loved living part time there and hosted family and friends on many occasions. Flora Jo had a selfless soul, kind spirit, golden heart and would often provide thoughtful gifts and gestures to family and friends.
Flora Jo was preceded in death by her husband Carl as well as her parents, sister Dolores Johnson, an infant sister Audrey Ann and a brother-in-law L. Jay Johnson. She is survived by many friends and relatives.
Per Flora Jo's wishes, her body will be donated to the Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa with cremation accorded. Visitation will take place at the Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 2-4pm followed by a Celebration of Life service beginning at 4pm with Pastor Marvin Martin officiating. A private family burial will happen later at the Iconium Cemetery. Memorials can be made to the Iconium Cemetery, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Flora Jo Martin Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at https://www.thomasfh.com or https://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome.
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