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.
Condolences(6)
Greg Shelby
Monticello, AR Wednesday, June 24, 2026 Mrs.Read was my 5th grade teacher,had a heart of gold and was dedicated to her career choice,she lived a long life,I only got in trouble 1 time I her class,standing up dancing in my school seat,thought I was invisible i guess,so sad to hear of her passing,even in her 90's she still remembered me,mad God continue to be with the family of a very talented and sweet woman!DEANA SIMPSON
Wilmar, AR Tuesday, June 16, 2026 When I first met Mrs. Read, I thought now there's a firecracker. She was my son's teacher. She didn't just teach him from books, she taught him from her heart. She taught me lessons along the way as well. Life lessons that I haven't forgotten and apply every day. She was fiercely passionate about education and the rights that come along with it. I could go on and on about Mrs. Read but the truth is simple. She was the epitome of a God fearing, passionate, wonderful, humbled, you've got to stand for something woman. She had a spirit that some of us only dream about having. Her legacy will live on. May she rest in love!Zachary N. Cooper
Crossett, AR Monday, June 15, 2026 My sincere condolences to your family during this difficult time.Debbie Martin
Monticello, AR Sunday, June 14, 2026 My deepest condolences to the family. I remember Mrs Read and her family from Second Baptist Church. Linda, you and your family are in my prayers.Lisa Roark Schmidt
Wilmar, AR Saturday, June 13, 2026 My deepest sympathies to the family. I have very fond memories of Mrs. Read. She was my 5th grade teacher. I would see her and her daughter Linda in Walmart and I was so glad I got to see her several times. May God bless and keep you at this time.Mary Lasiter
Wilmar, AR Saturday, June 13, 2026 Deepest sympathy to Mrs. Read's family. I first met her when she was teaching at Wilmar Elementary.