Martha Elizabeth Smith Moore Bates, 88 of Blanco, passed away on Friday, February 8, 2013. Martha was born on April 2, 1924, in Clayton, New Mexico to Charles Robert and Nora (Hooser) Smith. Martha was the oldest, followed by a brother Thad and then Jim. She had so many fond memories of growing up with her brothers, tree houses, swimming in the creeks, visiting cousins, and chores from living in the country. Martha was very musical and loved playing the piano, which she played by ear. Upon graduating from Flat High School, Martha went to West Texas State Teachers College in Canyon, Texas. During her first semester, World War II broke out, and Martha returned home to Dalhart. While living in Dalhart, Texas, Martha met the love of her life, Maurice Moore, and they were married on March 12, 1944. After several years of farming, ranching, and dairying in Dalhart they moved to Blanco, Texas. There they were blessed with four children; Christine, Anita, Kenneth, and Dennis. Martha worked as the bookkeeper and secretary for Blanco Products and Mrs. Russell Singleton for many years. Over the years, Martha’s hospitality to open her home to everyone was well known. Never one to let anyone go hungry for any reason, she loved to cook and was selfless when it came to helping people. After Maurice passed away in 1973, she met and married Ollie Bates, who preceded her in death in 2004. Martha grieved the lost of her brother Thad Smith in 1946, and her daughter Anita Wood in 2005. Martha was a member of the Blanco Eastern Star Chapter #934, and she considered them all her brothers and sisters. She was very patriotic and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She attended the First Baptist Church in Blanco, Texas, and she truly loved God, her family and friends, and her country.
Martha is survived by her daughter Christine Bushong and husband Frank of Round Rock; her two sons Kenneth Moore and wife Carolyn; and Dennis Moore and wife Kelly, all of Blanco; her brother Jim D. Smith and wife Floy of Kress; six grandchildren: Michelle, Nikki, Sara, Doyle, Dennis Jr., and Amanda; nine great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and beloved extended family and friends.
Visitation will be Monday evening from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Crofts – Crow Funeral Home in Blanco, Texas. Funeral services will be at 10:00 AM Tuesday, February 12, 2013, at the First Baptist Church in Blanco, Texas. Burial will follow in Blanco Cemetery. The family request that in lieu of flowers to send contributions to the charity of their choice.
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