Martha Ann Landers

Martha Ann Landers, daughter of the late Walter and Thelma Bishop Landers, was born in Dexter on April 18, 1937, and died at her home in Dexter on Feb. 11, 2013, at the age of 75.

She had lived all of her life in Dexter and was a member of the First Baptist Church in Dexter. For the last number of years, Martha Ann had resided at the Stoddard ARC Group Home on Walnut Street. She enjoyed her life under their wonderful care, especially the dances held for the residents. The family is eternally grateful for the loving care provided by the staff. Martha Ann never met a stranger and was known for her friendliness and her sweet temperament. One cousin spoke of her as the 'epitome of a loving soul'. She came from a loving family, surrounded by a nurturing community, and Martha Ann reflected their love back to everyone she knew.

Surviving are a sister, Shirley Thompson of Milstadt, Ill.; her brothers, Allen Landers of Koscinsko, Miss., and Burnell (Tony) Landers, M.D. of Independence, Mo.; their families; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Other family and friends also survive.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by five brothers, Norman, Clayborn E., Wilburn O., James R., and John Frank Landers.

Visitation will be Monday, Feb. 18, 2013, at

10 a.m. at the Watkins & Sons Funeral Home in Dexter. Funeral services will be Monday, Feb. 18, 2013, at 11 a.m. at the Watkins & Sons Chapel in Dexter with the Rev. James Landers of Liberty, Mo., officiating.

Interment will follow in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Charleston, Mo., with Watkins & Sons Funeral Service of Dexter in charge of arrangements.

The family requests that memorials be made to the Stoddard County ARC (please note for the Walnut Street Group Home) and mailed to 315 S. Walnut, Dexter MO 63841.