Della Gay Martin

Della Gay Martin, age 79, formerly of Pearisburg, Virginia passed away on September 24, 2026, at Heritage Hall-Blacksburg, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and devoted family life.
Born on June 13, 1947, in Baltimore, Maryland. She lived a life centered on home, family, and faith, and she will be remembered for the quiet strength and care she gave so generously to those around her. Della was a homemaker by vocation and by heart, and she took great pride in making a welcoming home for her family. She found joy in the simple and meaningful routines of daily life, and she approached each season with patience, grace, and a deep sense of purpose. Her love was shown in countless ways, from preparing meals and caring for her loved ones to offering encouragement and comfort whenever it was needed. Her faith was an important part of her life. Della was Pentecostal in faith and action, and she loved attending church. Her devotion was evident in the way she lived, and her beliefs guided the compassion and generosity she extended to others. She found strength in worship and fellowship, and her church life was a source of joy and spiritual comfort throughout the years. Della also enjoyed the pleasures of everyday living. She loved going to yard sales, tending her garden, and spending time with her grandchildren. She took pleasure in canning, a skill and tradition that reflected both her resourcefulness and her care for her family. These interests were more than hobbies to her, as they were expressions of the life she cherished and the home she helped build with love and dedication. She is survived by her daughters, Demetra Havens Smith and her husband Drew, and Carol Lidgard Tuck and her husband Tommy. She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Hannah Shay Smith and Evan Taylor Lidgard, who brought her great happiness and pride. Della treasured her family deeply, and her presence in their lives was a source of comfort, encouragement, and unconditional love. Della was preceded in death by her parents, George Cooper McClaskey and Thelma Thornhill McClaskey, as well as her daughter, Barbara Ann Crockett. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Linda Poole, George McClaskey, and Donald McClaskey. Their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life, and she carried their influence with her in the way she loved and cared for others. There will be a graveside service conducted on Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 2:00 PM in Birchlawn Burial Park with Pastor Gary Poff officiating. A guestbook is available to send condolences to the family by visiting www.kendallfuneralhome.com. The staff of Kendall Funeral Home are honored to serve the Martin family.