Martha Arlena Bourne (Covington)

Martha Arlena Covington Bourne, 85, of Clarksville, TN passed peacefully at home on November 3, 2025, surrounded by her loving children—just the way she would have wanted it. Born May 10, 1940, to Frank and Nancy Haley Covington in Guthrie, KY, Martha grew up with a strong spirit, a quick wit, and a heart big enough to hold the world. On September 24, 1954, she married the love of her life, William Henry “Sonny” Bourne and together they built a beautiful family and a lifetime of memories.

Martha is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Sonny; her brother, John; and her daughter-in-law, Kerry. She is survived by her devoted children: Janet, Peggy (Keith), Denise, Gary (Kerry), and Jay (Jennifer Jo). She also leaves behind her siblings: Nancy, Henry, Susie, and Teresa; 13 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and 5 great-great grandchildren—each of them her pride and joy.

Known affectionately as Aunt Mot to her nieces and nephews, “Granny“ to her grandkids and all of their friends, but most importantly “Mama” to her family—Martha had a way of making everyone feel like they were hers. Her home was always open, her arms always warm, and her cooking always unforgettable. Her dressing could start family feuds at Thanksgiving and her fried chicken and pies could make anyone believe in magic again.

Though she called herself a homemaker, Martha was truly the heartbeat of her family— a woman of strength , humor, and grace who worked tirelessly to make sure everyone around her was loved and cared for. She didn't slow down for much, except maybe to watch her Atlanta Braves— with a RC cola in hand (with Peanuts dropped right in the bottle, of course). In her later years, she found a love for word search books. She would work every puzzle in order and heaven help the person who tried to point out a word before she found it herself.

Martha was stunning in every way—inside and out. Her beauty came not just from her smile or her style, but from the fierce love she carried for her family. She had a laugh that could fill a room and a hug that could fix just about anything. Her life was built on love, laughter, and family— and though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched and the traditions she built will carry forward for generations.

A graveside memorial will be held at a later date where friends and family will gather—just like Martha would have wanted.

Please visit Martha's tribute wall and share a memory with the family.