Martha Ann Hughes

Martha Hughes passed away at the age of 87 on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Hospice Savannah. She was preceded in death by her husband, Talmadge Hughes; her parents, Robert L. and Lucille G. Autry; and sister, Linda Autry Bingham.

Martha was born and grew up in Macon, Georgia. After marrying, she lived in Columbus, Augusta, and Atlanta before moving to Valdosta, and eventually, Tybee Island and Savannah. She always loved music, singing and playing piano. While in Atlanta, she studied voice privately and sang with the Atlanta Symphony. She continued her studies in Valdosta, teaching piano to school students and singing in regional musical productions, cantatas, and oratorios.

Later she decided to pursue a career in nursing. She became a Licensed Practical Nurse, retiring from Candler Hospital after 27 years of service. She worked at all three hospitals in the Savannah area. She made mission trips to Haiti and to India.

She loved animals, especially dogs and horses. She rode horses for fun, and in competition, and had many pets throughout her life.

Martha was a doting mother of four, who was fun-loving, caring and compassionate. Surviving her are Katy Keyes of Savannah, Paula Lanzetta of Brunswick, Amy Simonaitis (Steve) of Ramrod Key, Florida, and Erik Wisenbaker (Staci) of Bloomingdale. Her three grandsons are Cody Wisenbaker of Charleston, SC, Paul Wisenbaker (Devon) of Ellabel, and James Rush of Ramrod Key, Florida; and her brothers, Robert Autry of Atlanta, Georgia, and Philip Autry (Debra) of Cookeville, Tennessee.

A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, July 21st at 10:30 am. The location is Louisiana Avenue Church of Christ, 2010 Louisiana Ave, Savannah, GA.

Martha was a member of Louisiana Church of Christ. Plans for a memorial service are presently pending. Remembrances may be made to Hospice Savannah, or to the Humane Society of Savannah.

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