Martha Bowen Kent, 73, of Cottondale, passed away Friday, March 25, 2022, surrounded by loved ones.

Martha was born February 20, 1949 in Atlanta, Georgia to Lena Vernell (Darby) and Barney C. Bowen, Jr.

She was preceded in death by her parents, as well her beloved stepfather, James Dallas "J.D." Sasser; daughter Marsha Kent Rodriguez, and brothers James Earl Sasser and Allen Harden Bowen.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 52 years, James Burton Kent of Cottondale; son Jonathan Wesley Kent of Cottondale; daughter Carol Kent Wyatt (Shane) of Chipley; brother John Thomas "Tommy" Sasser (Patricia) of Chipley and a sister of her heart - special friend of more than 60 years, Patricia Harden Hardy (Bill) of Tallahassee.

She is also survived by nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and other extended family members, as well as numerous friends.

Martha was known for her kindness, tender heart, and creativity. She was a talented artisan who painted, designed jewelry, and created many other unique arts and crafts.

Martha worked for the Florida Department of Transportation for 19 years and retired in 2010 from the District 3 FDOT office in Chipley.

Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at Brown Funeral Home in Chipley. Visitation will take place an hour prior to the service at the same location.

A private internment service will take place at Cypress Creek Church Cemetery in Alford, Florida at a later date.

Flowers are welcome; however, the family suggests as an alternative that donations be made to Emerald Coast Hospice.