Martha Whatley Taylor, 82, passed away Wednesday morning, August 28, 2024. She was born on December 6, 1941 in Sidon, MS to the late James Whatley and Marlene Beam.
Martha was married to the love of her life, Allen, in 1958 and they moved to Starkville, MS. She was a graduate of Starkville High School and became the first female in the School of Accounting at Mississippi State University, where she earned her accounting degree. Later she earned her CPA while working for National Bank of Commerce of MS (later Cadence Bank) in Starkville. She began her career as a teller with the bank, then known as People’s Bank. At the time of her retirement, Martha was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of NBC of MS in Starkville. There she oversaw the departments of Accounting, Auditing, Human Resources, and Stockholder Records.
Martha loved the Lord and her church. She enjoyed her Sunday School class and all of their get-togethers. She and her husband were faithful members and supporters of Meadowview Baptist Church in Starkville. She loved her family wholeheartedly, was devoted to making sure their needs were met, and encouraged them to accomplish their dreams and goals. Her daughters cherished her love, wise advise, sweet smile, and laughter.
Martha’s work family remember her as someone who wanted them to be the best they could be while also encouraging them to learn valuable new skills. Her guidance often led them to better opportunities and promotions. Her work family remains close to this day.
Martha is survived by her daughters, Alison Taylor Morgan (Tim) and Jennifer Taylor Pipkins (Bo), as well as one grandson, Gabriel Pipkins, a great joy in her life. She is also survived by her sister, Sarah Whatley Langley of Carrollton, MS.
In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her husband, Allen, a mere 23 days earlier.
Services will be held at Welch Funeral Home Starkville, MS on Monday, September 9, 2024. Visitation will start at 11:00 a.m. with the funeral at 12:00 p.m. Graveside service will follow at the Oddfellows Cemetery, Starkville.
