Martha Warren Wilson

Martha Warren Wilson, 100 years and 3 days young, died peacefully on Saturday, January 19, 2019 in Copley, Ohio.
She was born on her family's farm near Potomac, Illinois on January 16, 1919 and graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics in June of 1940. Upon graduation, she taught school in Carlinville, Illinois prior to marrying Woodrow Wilson in 1941.
In 1942, Woody and she moved to Akron as he joined Firestone Research to work in the development and production of synthetic rubber for the war effort. Through the years, they moved for various Firestone plant assignments in Louisiana, Texas and Virginia, returning in 1964 to Akron where they resided through retirement and the rest of their lives.
Martha actively enjoyed a number of endeavors including playing bridge as a Junior Master, activities at the Akron Woman's City Club and preparing gourmet meals for family and friends. Martha and Woody could often be found playing golf or hiking the beautiful parks that surround the Akron area. They also frequented E.J. Thomas and Blossom Music Center for music and theatre performances. She was a loyal football fan of the Fighting Illini and made sure to wear her U of I sweater when they played Ohio State.
In Akron, she was an active member of Firestone Park Presbyterian Church from 1950 to 1956 and Westminster Presbyterian Church from 1965 to 2019. She served in various capacities including deacon, elder and Sunday school teacher. Additional volunteer time included YMCA Indian Guides, Cub Scouts, the American Red Cross and Meals on Wheels.
Martha genuinely loved the experience and journey of life, the beauty of nature and especially the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. For her, your friendship was lifelong!
Martha was the daughter of the late Irvin and Iva Ragan Warren of Urbana, Illinois. She was also preceded in death by her brothers and sisters, Clark, Lois, Mildred, Jay and Chuck. Her beloved husband of 58 years, Woody, died in 1999.
She is survived by her sons, Chuck, Dave and his wife, Holly and their children Jessie and Ben. Having grandchildren was one of the highlights of her life, and she cherished them.
A memorial service will be conducted at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Saturday, January 26, 2019, at 11:00 a.m. by Pastor Jon Hauerwas. A reception with the family will be held at the church immediately following the service. There are no calling hours and a private interment will be held at Rose Hill Burial Park. In lieu of flowers, our family requests that memorials be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1250 W. Exchange St., Akron, OH 44313. (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)