Rosa Martin Venable

Obituary For Rosa Martin Venable

Rosa Martin Venable,71, of Martinsville, VA passed Saturday, March 8, 2025. Public viewing will be held on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 from 11: a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Hairston’s Funeral Home, 301 Fayette St., Martinsville, VA 24112. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Reach Out Apostolic Tabernacle, 225 Brenda Dr., Axton, VA 24054 with the Celebration of Life beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Hairston Family Cemetery, Axton, Virginia

Rosa Martin Venable, age 71, peacefully passed away on Saturday, March 8, 2025. She was born to Ralph Martin and Effie Hairston Martin on February 22, 1954, in Axton, Virginia. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Rosa was preceded in death by her parents, her devoted husband, Johnny Venable Sr., two sons, Vincent “Greg” Martin and Michael Venable, and one grandson, Minon Venable.

A proud member of the first graduating class of Laurel Park High School in 1972, Rosa went on to live a life full of love, service, and care for others. After retiring from Dupont as a material handler, she dedicated her time to becoming a compassionate home health aide, where she advocated for the sick and shut-in with unmatched tenderness. Each patient she cared for became a cherished part of her extended family, and she poured her heart into making sure they felt seen, loved, and pampered.

Affectionately known as Mama Rose, Auntie Rose, Rose Mary, or Wicky, Rosa had a warm and infectious spirit. She was an avid reader, often found with a good book in hand and a cup of coffee by her side. When she wasn’t lost in the pages of a novel, you could find her watching her favorite TV shows—Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, Family Feud, and The Price is Right. Her love for adventure and play was also evident in her regular visits to “work,” otherwise known as playing Bingo.

Above all, Rosa was a pillar of family. She was the glue that held everyone together, always available to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. If she didn’t know how to solve a problem, she knew someone who could. Her home was a place where all were welcome, and she made sure no one ever left hungry—her love was expressed through the meals she prepared and the joy she brought to every gathering.

A deeply faith-filled woman, Rosa loved to bring joy to those around her and had a heart that sought to serve God and others. Her kindness, strength, and unwavering love will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rosa leaves behind many to cherish her memory, including her son, Johnny Venable III, and daughter, Kimberly Venable; her grandchildren, Christian Thompson, Elijah Fulgham, Tymir Fulgham, Jordan Venable, Jade Venable, Journee Hairston, and Kylani Gross; her siblings, Larry Martin, Deborah Jean Martin, Harry “Billy” Martin (Beatrice), and Virginia “Vicky” Robertson (Gregory); along with a host of relatives, friends, and loved ones who will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Rosa’s legacy of love, compassion, and devotion to her family will continue to inspire and bring comfort to those she leaves behind. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

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