Martha Jo Bailey

Martha Jo Bailey, age 77, of Forest City, passed away Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at VIA Wendover Hospice in Shelby.

Martha was born on Monday, March 28, 1949 in Rutherford County to the late Griffin and Carolyn Earley. She was an avid Softball player for the Spindale Police Club and later was an umpire. Martha enjoyed growing roses in her flower garden, sewing for her family, and baking goodies for all those she loved. She also enjoyed festively decorating her home for Christmas. Martha was of the Baptist faith. She will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Joseph Michael Bailey and her sister, Sandra Earley.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Rhonda Stephens (Damon) of Gastonia; sons, Ray Bailey (Ann) of Forest City and Basil Earley (Tahnia) of Bostic; brother, Ronald Earley of Charlotte; grandchildren, Danielle Boone, Jessice Bailey, Brian Bailey (Virginia), Odin Bailey, Sara Stephens, Emily Drewery (Gavin), Elijah Brooks, Malachi Earley; great grandchildren, Isaiah, Mason, Natalie, Wynter, Bransyn, Bentley, Bradley, Kloee, Tamsyn and Clark.

In accordance with Martha’s wishes there will be no formal services.

Memorial donations are requested to VIA Wendover Hospice, 953 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150.