Martha Jean was born in Randolph County, North Carolina on April 27, 1934 to C.O. and Eva Mae Ingold. She graduated from Asheboro High school in 1952 and married James Carlton Shoemaker that July. The Navy brought them to Norfolk. She had three sons; Charles Medford, Garry Carlton and James Harold. In 1954 they moved to a new home in Aragona Village where she lived the rest of her life.

It seems she always worked. The first position she had was with Dr. Max Berson O.D. at Wards Corner. Then she worked for Hilbert-Burdell optical laboratory on Tazewell Street in the upstairs offices taking orders over the phone and stayed in the optical trade until retiring from her son’s practice at age 82.

Her work habits included cultivating a groomed appearance and manners. She was a tireless negotiator at the department and jewelry stores in downtown Norfolk. Living on a modest budget was no excuse not to look her best.

Raising three boys and keeping a house while working full time kept her busy. Loss was a big part of her life in the 1960’s. Her youngest son, Jimmy, was killed in 1966 and Carlton died in 1969. She didn’t quit on life and kept her house, her job and her independence. She found happiness again married to Maxin “Mac” Peele in 1976. She enjoyed friends and family, walking the beach at Buxton while Mac and Harold fished in the surf. The church at Haygood Methodist was an important part of their life. She enjoyed close friendships and wonderful social times during the seventies and eighties with Mac. When Mac died in 2003, she became close to a long term neighbor, Jim Stancil. They enjoyed companionship and meals almost every day. She continued working and got more involved in church after Jim passed away. Through the choir, she met Keith Best.

Keith and Martha developed a relationship that deepened in her last years. She cared for him and encouraged his progress through his nursing studies. As dementia slowly took her, Keith became the anchor and light in her life. Keith cared for Martha from encouraging her singing in the choir through her daily needs until her death. Her family has the deepest respect and gratitude for his devotion and sacrificial love. With Keith by her side, Martha died peacefully in her home on May 3, 2022.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday July 9, 2022 at Haygood United Methodist Church  4713 Haygood Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23455 at 1 pm.

Please leave a memory or word of condolence with the family.