Martha Carson Philyaw, age 74, passed away on Jan. 10, 2010 in Snellville, Ga. at Embracing Hospice. She was born in Farmington, Ga. on Feb. 6, 1935 to Henry Grady Carson Sr. and Alice Venable Carson.

Her family moved to Madison in 1943 where she graduated from Morgan County High School in 1954. She retired after 20 years of service with the Georgia Power Co. in 1994. She was a member of the Madison Baptist Church.

She loved cooking, reading, walking, Snickers candy bars and coffee. She was the bright star at every gathering. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren as well as her many nieces and nephews.

She is survived by her son, Rick Philyaw and wife, Linda of Massillon, Ohio; grandsons, Aaron Philyaw (Betsey) of Bostwick, Ga., Nate Philyaw of Atlanta, Michael Philyaw of Rutledge, Ga.; great-granddaughters, Ava and Genevieve Philyaw; sister, Mildred Carson Womack; twin brother, Henry Carson and wife, Charlotte; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 16 at the A.E. Carter Funeral Home Chapel officiated by Dr. Jim Ross, pastor of the Madison Baptist Church. A.E. Carter Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.