Martha Faye Lanham Read
April 15, 1929 - June 12, 2026

Martha Faye Lanham Read, age 97, passed away on June 12, 2028. She was born on April 15, 1929, in Glenwood, AR to Lula Mae Echols and Noel Lanham.

Martha lived a life of extraordinary service, leadership, faith, and dedication to her community. Long before it was common or widely accepted for women to pursue advanced education, she earned both her college degree and master's degree. She believed deeply that women and children should never be limited by society's expectations and spent her life working to create opportunities for others.

Education and literacy were among her greatest passions. Alongside her beloved husband, Vaughn A. Read, she was an integral part of establishing the Drew County Literacy Council. Together they also drove the county bookmobile, bringing books, knowledge, and opportunity to countless families throughout the area. Her commitment to literacy and education touched generations of children and adults.

Martha and Vaughn were also instrumental in helping establish the local Boys & Girls Club, creating opportunities for young people to learn, grow, and succeed. Their dedication to the community continued through their efforts to help develop the Senior Citizens Center, where they not only worked to get the program started but also remained active participants and supporters for many years.

Following her retirement from public education, Martha continued serving others by working in the homes of children with special needs. She devoted several years to helping families and providing care and support before eventually retiring after accepting a position at the boot camp program. She remained active in service until declining eyesight forced her final retirement.

A passionate advocate for children and families, Martha frequently traveled to the state capitol to promote educational initiatives and legislative ideas. Among her accomplishments, she played an important role in helping establish a common starting date for schools across Arkansas, reflecting her lifelong commitment to improving education for students and families.

Faith was the cornerstone of Martha's life. She was a longtime member of Second Baptist Church. Following the church's division, she helped establish Immanuel Baptist Church and remained a faithful and active member for many years. Even when illness prevented her attendance, her faith never wavered.

Martha was a true pioneer, community builder, and servant leader. She believed every child deserved an opportunity to succeed, every family deserved support, and every woman should be free to pursue her dreams. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched, the organizations she helped build, and the family she loved so dearly.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Vaughn A. Read, on December 28, 1998; her parents, Lula Mae and Nole Lanham; her brothers, Jack Lanham, Robert Lanham, and Andrew Lanham; and her beloved granddaughter, Sarah Irene Rose.

She is survived by her daughters, Nyla Ann Rose and Linda Ann Stringfellow; her grandchildren, Tiffany, Dennis, Shane, Annie, Corrine, and Tim; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; her niece, Gayla Lanham Burkett; and many other beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Martha's life was defined not by what she achieved for herself, but by what she accomplished for others. Her vision, compassion, determination, and faith made her a trailblazer in her community and a blessing to all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of service and love that will continue to inspire generations to come.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23.

Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 17, 2026, in Oakland Cemetery with Rev. Andy Connard officiating. There will be a visitation from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home.