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Martha was a woman of vibrant spirit and generous heart, someone whose presence was felt immediately and remembered warmly.

Martha J. Allen, of Greenville, South Carolina, passed away on September 11, 2026, in her hometown of Greenville after battling stage 5 kidney failure and congestive heart failure. She was born on May 22, 1940, in Greenville, and throughout her life she remained deeply rooted in the place and people she loved.

Martha was a woman of vibrant spirit and generous heart, someone whose presence was felt immediately and remembered warmly. She was known for her outgoing nature, her joyful way of cutting up and making others laugh, and for embracing life to the fullest. A devoted woman of God, she loved going to church, and her faith stood at the very center of her life. Church was not simply part of her routine; it was among the things she treasured most.  Her favorite Bible verse was John 3:16. She gave of herself freely to others, loved her family with steadfast devotion, and had a way of seeing the best in people. To many, she was lovingly known as “Malmal,” a name spoken with affection by those who knew the comfort of her love.

She found happiness in simple and beautiful things. Martha enjoyed sewing, thrifting, and spending time on the porch, where she delighted in watching the hummingbirds and owls that came to visit. She also loved animals, and even the squirrels in the yard became part of her daily amusement. She called them “Johnny Cash” because, as she said, they “walked the line” along the powerline. It was just one example of the wit and charm that made her so unforgettable.

Her family will also cherish the stories and traditions that made time with her so special. The “turkey song” sung every Thanksgiving became a beloved family tradition. One especially treasured memory tells of the time she was chosen for a surprise visit connected with the news, when Joe and his wife were set to sing a love song to her. Silver balloons had been placed around her porch, and when the camera woman turned on the light, Martha became startled, hurried the dog back inside, and slammed the door. When those outside called for her to come out, she opened the door and declared, “I thought aliens were coming to get me.” It was a moment full of laughter and perfectly captured her humor, her liveliness, and the joy she brought to those around her.

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She enjoyed sewing, thrifting, and spending time on the porch, where she delighted in watching the hummingbirds and owls that came to visit.

Above all, Martha was devoted to her family. She is survived by her daughter, Connie Raines, and son-in-law, Greg Raines; her grandchildren, Andy Jones and Kandy Whitfield; her great-grandchild, Dillian; her sister, Themla Bolman; and her brother, Michael Girardeau. Her family also lovingly shares that she had four grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren from one child, a legacy that speaks to the breadth of the family she cherished so dearly. In every generation, her love leaves a lasting imprint, and those who carry her memory forward will continue to feel the warmth, laughter, and strength she gave so freely.

She was preceded in death by John B. Girardeau Jr. (Jack), J.D. Giradeau, David Giardeau, Janet Merrell, Elizabeth Monday Cane, J.B. Giradeau Sr., and Inice Giradeau. Their memories remained part of the story of her life, and now she rests among those who went before her.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on September 18, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Graceland Mortuary, 4814 White Horse Rd, Greenville, SC 29611. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at Graceland Mortuary. Graveside service will be held at 1:15 p.m. at Graceland Cemetery West, 4814 White Horse Road, Greenville, SC 29611.

Martha J. Allen will be remembered as a woman of faith, laughter, tenderness, and unmistakable presence. She loved deeply, gave generously, and filled ordinary days with humor and grace. Her family, her church, and all who knew her will carry her memory with enduring love.