Martha Ann Richardson-Hicks, 84, was called home to be with the Lord on August 1, 2025.

Born on March 20, 1941, in Suffolk, Virginia, Martha was the beloved daughter of the late Deacon George Richardson and Deaconess Alma Anna Wilson-Richardson. She was the second oldest of five siblings—George Jr., Jean, Edward, and Mary.

Martha was raised in a faith-filled home and maintained a rich spiritual connection from an early age. At age 13, she was baptized at Mission Baptist Church in Suffolk in 1954—a defining moment that marked the beginning of her personal commitment to a life submitted to Christ.

She pursued her education at Virginia Union University in Richmond, Virginia, where she majored in Business and earned an Associate's degree. In her early years, she was introduced as a debutante at East Suffolk High School in 1959, and graduated with honors in 1960.

In 1974, Martha was honored with a Certificate of Award from the U.S. Air Force for her dedication as a military spouse.

After graduating, Martha relocated to Washington, D.C. and went on to establish a successful career with C&P Telephone Company (later Bell Atlantic, now Verizon), where she worked as a bookkeeper, management clerk, and service representative. In 1992, she received the State of Maryland Governor's Citation recognizing 25 years of outstanding service. She continued her work with the company until her retirement in 1995, after 27 years.

Martha's faith remained the foundation of her life. She was a charter member of Resurrection Baptist Church in Southeast Washington, D.C., where she served faithfully as a Deaconess and Usher for many years. In 2006, her devotion to the church was recognized with the Senior Appreciation Award. She was also a member of The Order of the Eastern Star.

Throughout her life, she often reflected on the major events that shaped her era—from the founding of the United Nations in 1945 to the rise of television and computers—milestones that marked a rapidly changing world she witnessed firsthand. Among her favorite shows were Star Trek, Home Makeover, Family Feud with Steve Harvey, Judge Judy, and Sanford & Son, all of which brought her laughter and comfort.

Martha found her greatest joy in time spent with family. She especially cherished the warmth and connection of Christmas gatherings.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George Sr. and Alma; her beloved husband, Robert L. Hicks; her brothers George Jr. and Edward; her sister Jean; and her daughter Tammy. She is survived by her children, Seanell and Paul; her grandchildren, Adrienne, Jamaine, Daryan, Tommie, and Joshua; and her great-grandchildren, Carter, Charles III, and Keanu.

Martha's life was a reflection of unwavering devotion to family and faith. Affectionately known as Ann, Mama, and Granny, she leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and spiritual strength that will endure through all who knew her.