Martha Alderman

COOKEVILLE CHAPEL - Martha L. Alderman passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 17, 2026, surrounded by family. She was a devoted mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and a faithful servant of God whose life was defined by love, kindness, and quiet strength.

Above all, Martha loved her family. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. A woman of deep faith, she was a longtime member of New Hope Free Will Baptist Church in Plant City, FL, living her faith through compassion and grace.

Born in 1939 and raised in Cottondale, FL, Martha moved to Plant City in 1954. She married her beloved husband of 57 years, Donald R. Alderman, in 1961. They raised their family in Plant City, and in 2022 Martha moved to Cookeville, TN.

Martha dedicated more than 30 years to a career in banking with Hillsboro State Bank/SunTrust and also served over 30 years managing the Finance Office for the Florida Strawberry Festival. Even in retirement, she remained active-enjoying time at the Cookeville Senior Activity Center, exercising, Bingo, playing beach ball volleyball, and making new friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald; her parents, James Dewey and Magdalene Benefield; her sister Libby Hawthorne; and her brothers Don and Carlton Benefield.

Martha is survived by her son Richard Alderman (Annette) of Cookeville, TN, and daughter Vikki Morris (Shawn) of Harwich, MA; grandchildren Tiah Sweet (Aaron) of Old Fort, TN, Jesse Alderman of Lakeland, FL, Zachary Morris of Harwich, MA, and Parker Morris of Herndon, VA, and Christina Clayton (Jonathan) and John Bunkley (Megan) of North Port, FL, plus her 10 treasured great-grandchildren. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as her loving sisters, Peggy Ann Geschke, Judy Cutchins, Lois Henderson, and Peggy Jane Benefield, who will forever cherish her memory.

Martha leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, hard work, laughter, and love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held at Hopewell Funeral Home in Plant City, FL. In lieu of flowers, the family would be honored to have contributions made to your local Senior Center or Hospice Care provider

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” - Matthew 25:23

Hooper Huddleston & Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-6111. You may share your thoughts and memories at www.hhhfunerals.com.