Martha Hefler
With dignity and grace, Martha Hefler went to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 27, 2012, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Memorial service: 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Hurst. The family will receive guests at a reception in the fellowship hall following the service. Graveside service: 11 a.m. Thursday in Hastings Cemetery in Hastings, Okla. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Martha may be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church, 852 West Bedford-Euless Road, Hurst, Texas 76053 or Mary Crowley Cancer Research Center, attention: Robin Farr, 1700 Pacific Ave., Suite 1100, Dallas, Texas 75201.
Martha was born on Aug. 12, 1934, in Byers to the late Robert Earl Clayton Sr. and Christeen Clayton and was the oldest of three children. Martha graduated from Byers High School in 1952 as the valedictorian and then married the love of her life, Vernie Hefler. Martha was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and excelled at making a home in 17 different locations in support of Vernie's career with the federal government and later as a successful entrepreneur. Martha was a wonderful homemaker and later enjoyed a career at Nationwide Insurance where she was employed for over 16 years. Martha was a devout Christian and member of St. Paul United Methodist Church for over 30 years. Martha also had a sincere passion for physical wellness and was an active member of Texas Health Fitness Center-HEB since 1988 where she shared life with many cherished friends. Martha will always be remembered by her genteel demeanor that would quickly turn strangers into friends. Martha was adored by her husband, children and grandchildren and they praise God for the time she blessed them, now grieving with hope and celebrating God's promise that they will one day be with Martha again.-1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her brother, William Hiram Clayton.
Survivors: Martha is survived by her loving husband of nearly 60 years, Vernie Hefler of Hurst, Texas; daughter, Donna Mitchell and husband, Randy of Irving, Texas; son, Gary Hefler and wife, Zonya of Burleson, Texas; daughter, Carol Gay and husband, Dennis of Hastings, Oklahoma; brother, Robert Clayton Jr. and wife, Virginia of Byers, Texas; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; several nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.