Sr. Terry Martin, CND
By Victoria Ewing Ware
Guest Writer
Born on Feb. 2, 1929, Therese Blanche Martin was the second of eight children. Her firstborn brother had an eye malady that concerned his parents. Asking God to cure their son, they promised to name their first daughter Therese, after St. Therese of Lisieux, known as the Little Flower of Jesus. In her autobiography, Therese, known affectionately as “Sr. Terry,” wrote: “Little Saint Therese dropped a rose petal from heaven; my brother’s eyes were cured.”
When she was just 5 years old, Therese’s aunt used to take her on trips of mercy to visit the elderly. It impressed her very much and was a seed that was germinated in her and influenced her future years. In 1955, Sr. Terry took final vows of poverty, chastity and obedience in the Congregation of Notre-Dame.
Sr. Terry served more than 30 years in Appalachia and had a great love for its mountains, trees, flowers, views and especially its people. She gave generously of her time, treasures and talents. Everything was a gift from God and her gratitude always overflowed into her smile and her conversations. With a talent for making magic with the children, she enjoyed their responses to her tricks. Sr. Terry was skilled at recruiting helpers to deliver food, furniture and clothing to those in need.
When Sr. Terry arrived in Hayesville she was a light for the members of the Parish community of Immaculate Heart of Mary and St. William Church in Murphy. She worked diligently to establish relationships with the Spanish-speaking members of the community, assisting them in integrating in the broader community. She taught religious education classes for years and many children received the sacraments thanks to her outreach. Working with ecumenical leaders in the region, joint efforts were developed to meet the needs of the poorest members in the surrounding area.
Sr. Terry’s first few years in the area were dedicated to the Afro-American people who had very few rights and privileges in North Carolina. Working tirelessly, she helped them to develop a community center in the segregated town of Texana, where they lived. Her presence among them brought great joy and she helped many young people complete their education. Many adults received their degrees and were able to find gainful employment thanks to her efforts. Each year she was an invited speaker and prayer leader at the Martin Luther King gatherings.
In her later years, Sr. Terry started cooking classes for those who wished to learn. She had a knack for sewing and taught young people how to use a sewing machine. Some became accomplished quilt makers and found jobs in the sewing industry.
Sr. Terry’s contributions continue to serve those in this area. The Sister Terry Martin Endowment Fund awards scholarships to deserving high-school seniors to seed on-going education.
Even when her days were numbered, from the hospital, Sr. Terry contacted many people she had met in her life, thanking them for their presence in her life. Her phone calls were received with great joy and peace. She thanked her caregivers for offering their gifts in service to her. Leaving her room, one doctor said, “Now, I’ll go offer my gifts to the next patient.” At her bedside was the prayer to St. Mother Teresa, which reads: “Teach me to allow Jesus to penetrate and possess my whole being so completely that my life too may radiate his light and love to others.” Sr. Terry did indeed radiate the light and love of God to all. It was the source of her joy.
Sr. Terry Martin passed away on Aug. 9, 2024 at the age of 95. She was a beautiful gift to those who knew her and loved her. May she rest in the arms of God and enjoy her life in heaven.
A celebration of life of this beautiful woman will take place at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20th at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 1433 Hwy 64 West, Hayesville. Dinner will follow in the Sr. Terry Fellowship Hall. All are welcome.