Martha Alice Hicks, 77, passed away on September 3, 2026. She was born on August 29, 1949, in Middlebourne, West Virginia, to Russell Blaine and Rebecca Virginia Ferrebee. Martha grew up in Steubenville, Ohio, and attended Steubenville Public Schools. Later in life, she earned her GED, a goal she was determined to attain and one that showed her family that it was never too late.

The youngest of 10 sisters, Martha was preceded in death by her parents, Russell Blaine and Rebecca Virginia Ferrebee; six of her sisters; her husband, Nathaniel “Dickie” Hicks; her daughter, Jeananne (Boston) Thorn; and her grandson, Sir Boston Jr. She is survived by her three sisters, Leona “Patty” Roscoe, Hazel Lamasters, and Mary George.

Martha was a hardworking woman. She worked for many years at Testa’s Market and later at the Steubenville Bakery. The people she worked with throughout those years became more than coworkers; they were family.

Martha devoted her life to her family. Her door was always open, literally and figuratively. Martha was feisty and had a crazy sense of humor. If you knew, you knew.

She was old-school in every way, especially when it came to music. She loved her some Luther Vandross and was a proud and devoted Dallas Cowboys fan who could not wait for football season every year. She enjoyed watching Madea and Lifetime movies, as well as court and judge shows.

Martha enjoyed thrift shopping and going to yard sales. She was always happy to find a good deal and would sometimes buy things she did not need because she thought somebody might need them someday. That somebody could be a family member, a neighbor, or even a stranger. She would save it until the day it was needed.

Martha liked to cook and bake. She loved strawberries and especially loved collecting strawberry decorations.

Martha had a personal relationship with God and lived every day with strong faith.

Most recently, Martha celebrated her 77th birthday with her family at Oglebay Park, just days before her passing. Her family spent the day together, enjoying time with Martha and creating memories that they will carry with them forever.

Martha leaves to cherish her memory her sons, Sir Boston Sr. and Willie Boston III (Brenda); her daughter, Di Anna Boston; 10 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Martha will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former coworkers, nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors, and the many people who became family to her throughout her life. She was part of the Steubenville community for many years, and many people proudly referred to her as “Grandma Martha” or “Mrs. Martha.” She will be missed by many.

Martha’s love, strength, and sense of humor will live on through the people who knew and loved her. She was always there, and she will always remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

In Martha’s words, “I’ll holla.”

Services will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Gregory-Martin Funeral Home Steubenville Chapel, 255 South Seventh Street, Steubenville, Ohio. Viewing will be held from 12:00 noon until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to Gregory-Martin Funeral Home, LLC.