Martha Nell (Parish) Pybus

Martha Nell Pybus, a beacon of positivity, laughter, and faith, departed this life on August 31, 2023, succumbing to natural causes. Born in Houston County, Alabama on December 15, 1929, she was a steadfast pillar of her community in Dothan, Alabama, where she spent her entire life radiating love, joy, and inspiration.

Martha was a woman of many talents and interests. Her spirit of adventure and unquenchable thirst for knowledge led her to try her hand at various things including obtaining her pilot's license in the early 1970's. She painted beautiful canvases, filled with vibrant colors and emotions, a reflection of her own life. Music was another passion that she pursued with fervor, playing several musical instruments and singing in the choir at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, where she was a member. Her love for woodworking saw her build exquisite cabinets, a testament to her craftsmanship and creativity. She even attended Clown School and participated in the National Peanut Festival Parade, displaying her unique, infectious sense of humor.

Martha was a woman of strength and determination. She worked diligently for over 26 years at the local shoe store, Pic and Sav, where she served as the manager, demonstrating her leadership skills and dedication. Her athletic prowess was evident in her high school years, playing softball for Dothan High School and on a team sponsored by Nip and Ernies. Her commitment to service was seen in her mission trips to Israel and Brazil and was a part of the honorary reserve with the Houston County Sheriff's Department.

Martha was a beloved mother to Linda Pybus (David) Baker, Becki Pybus (Wallace) Martin, and Sonny (Denise) Pybus. She was a doting grandmother to Neil Baker, Shea Baker Milner, Brandi Powell, Brooke Powell, Dusty Pybus, Hunter Pybus, and Spencer Pybus. Martha was adored by her 16 great grandchildren. She was a cherished aunt to John, Gadi, and Jimmy Parish. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lois Mullins Parish, her brother, Jerry M. Parish, Sr., by her father, Gadi Jeremiah Parish, Jr., her husband, Cecil D. Pybus, Jr., and by her nephew, Jerry M. Parish, Jr.

Martha's life was a testament to the words of Helen Keller, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." She was a daring adventurer, always ready to try something new, always ready to lend a helping hand, and always ready to spread joy through her humor. Martha was not only adventurous but also funny and faith-filled. Her laughter was infectious, her faith unwavering. She lived her life to the fullest, always eager to learn, to grow, to serve, and to love.

A celebration of Martha's life will be held at 2 pm on Sunday, September 3, 2023 at Ridgecrest Baptist Church with Pastor Ray Jones officiating. Martha will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband at Memory Hill Cemetery in Dothan, Alabama. The family will receive friends at Sunset Funeral Home on Saturday evening from 4-6 pm. Flowers are being accepted or memorial contributions may be made to the Ridgecrest Baptist Church Music Department in Martha's memory.