Obituary of Martha Jo Van Hoven

Martha Jo Van Hoven, passed away Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the age of 84,  surrounded by her family.

Martha Jo Van Hoven was born in Lyles,TN on June 21, 1939, to the late Paul Jones Connelly and Sarah Joyce Anderson Connelly.

Martha is preceded in death by her parents; Paul and Sarah Connelly, Grandson, Rowan Frensley; Nephew, Victor Connelly; niece, Renee Connelly. She is survived by Husband of 55 years, David Van Hoven; Children, Peter (Kelly) Van Hoven, Jana (Art) Frensley: Grandchildren, Carson Van Hoven, Catherine Van Hoven, And Hudson Frensley; Siblings, Edwin (Carol) Connelly, Ronald Connelly, Jeanette (Gary) Stevens; Nieces and Nephews, Jeanine, Christy, Paige, and David. Martha was a train hostess in Jacksonville, FL and that is where she met her husband David, she was also a Realtor for over 40+ years, a member of Madison Church of Christ. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she was generous, had a dry sense of humor, loved the church, a great mentor, especially to her daughter, better known as the mother/daughter duo.   Martha was very creative and loved art, painting, reading, and birds.

Martha, much like her father Paul, cared deeply for the welfare of others, especially the vulnerable. When she learned of the WIlson County CASA volunteer program she underwent the training and served multiple years as a court appointed advocate for the children. Althought the legal process was frustratingly slow Martha none the less continued to serve because so few do so. 

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 7, 2024, 12:00-2:00pm, with services at 2:00pm. Burial will be private.

The family ask in lieu of flowers donations made to:

Court Appointed Special Advocate (children)

 Wilson County CASA

111 Castle Heights Ave

 Lebanon, TN 37087

Or

St. Jude Children Hospital

501 St. Jude Place

Memphis, TN 38105