Martha Turner

On March 11, 2014, Martha "Mott" Hicks Turner, of Grover, died at Cleveland Pines Nursing Center, under the care of Hospice, while surrounded by her family and friends. Mrs. Turner was born Martha Elizabeth Hicks on Sept. 3, 1926, in Grover, to Bessie Irene Boheler and Warren Sherrill Hicks.

Beloved Mother and Grandmother, she is survived by her children, son John Gene Turner, Jr.; daughter Vickie Turner Propst; son-in-law Thomas Fred Propst Jr.; grandson Dr. John Thomas Propst; and granddaughter Megan Elizabeth Propst Huebner and husband Christopher Scott Huebner. Mrs. Turner is also survived by her sister-in-law Jo Ann Hicks; nephews Mickey Hicks, Todd Hicks, John Haga and Richard Gold; niece Sharon Gold Sizemore; and their children and grandchildren.

Mott graduated from Grover High School, class of 1945, and attended Shelby Nursing School. She worked in the Grover High School Cafeteria and enjoyed chaperoning Grover High School Seniors to Washington, D.C. Her life was filled with caring and service to family and friends, church and community.

Throughout her life she was an outspoken advocate for special needs children and adults at the county, state, and national level. She helped start special education programs at North Shelby (Northside) School, known as the Children's Center for special needs founded in 1975.

Mott was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church Grover, where she helped in various areas of the church and was a member of the WMU. Considered a "Grover girl" through and through, she loved the town of Grover, attending local council meetings, and was a member of the Grover Woman's Club.

A true patriot, she often served as a Delegate to the N.C. Democratic Convention and enjoyed campaigning for candidates, whether running locally, or at the county, state, or national level.

Mott enjoyed 4-H as a young person growing up in Grover in the 40s and became a 4-H Leader in Cleveland County in the 60s.

Prior to becoming a resident of Cleveland Pines Nursing Center, Mott enjoyed volunteering in the CPNC Activities Department. As a resident, she served as President of the Residence Council and fully participated in CPNC activities and events. Mott genuinely loved the staff, residence and their families - she welcomed and loved each person that entered the halls of Cleveland Pines