Martha Ann Byer Vest

Martha Ann Byer Vest of Bel Air, MD passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 3, 2022.  Born in Covington, VA, she was the daughter of the late Everette Payne Byer and Iva Alfred Byer.  She is survived by her sons, Franklin Eugene Vest, JR of Bel Air, MD and his wife Melodi, David Alan Vest of Dominican Republic and Danny Lynn Vest of Bel Air, MD and his wife Kathleen.  She was a loving grandmother to Joshua Vest and his wife Leslie, Zachary Vest, Ryan Vest, Ana Vest and great grandmother to Sebastian and Zoe Vest.  Martha is also survived by her brother David Byer and his wife, Peggy and many loving nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her parents, Martha was predeceased by sisters Mabel Bicknell, Mary Sue Rawlings, Ruby Wages, and brother Jack Byer.

Martha graduated from Dunlap High School in Covington, VA in 1951.  She was a standout basketball player and editor-in-chief of the school yearbook.  She moved to Maryland in 1955 and began working at Aberdeen Proving Ground in 1957.  She worked in the finance office and would eventually work her way up to Chief of the Disbursing Branch.  In 1989, after 32 years of Federal Service, she retired.  She was an active member of Bible Baptist Church in Aberdeen, MD for many years, serving as Sunday School Teacher, Church Secretary and Choir Member.  She later became an active member of Oak Grove Baptist Church where she participated in many activities.  She loved to read Christian novels and books and she especially enjoyed the Church library at Oak Grove.  She was also an avid golfer who played in the Ladies League at both Ruggles and Exton Golf Courses. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Oak Grove Baptist Church, 2106 Churchville Road, Bel Air, MD 21015.