Martha Anne Chronister

Martha Anne Chronister, age 85, of Benton, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026.

Born August 5, 1940, in Warren, Arkansas, Martha lived a life centered around her family, her home, and the simple joys that brought her happiness.

As a student at Warren High School, Martha was a majorette and played the coronet in the school band. She was known for twirling flaming batons, something that took both talent and courage and made her stand out even then.

Martha took great pride in her home and yard. She loved gardening and could often be found outside pulling weeds, tending flowers, and making sure everything looked just right. Neighbors knew her well and often joked that they could recognize her from a distance by the way she worked in her flower beds. She enjoyed creating a beautiful place for her family and took pride in keeping her home welcoming and well cared for. Martha also had a special love for the family pets she cared for through the years. She treasured their companionship and treated each one as a beloved member of the family.

Anyone who knew Martha knew she never met a stranger. She loved to talk and could turn a quick trip to Kroger into an afternoon of visiting with people she knew—or people she had just met. She had a gift for making others feel comfortable and valued.

Martha was also incredibly talented. She was a skilled seamstress who made clothing for her children when they were young and was known for her wonderful cooking, especially her meatloaf, which became a family favorite. She also enjoyed building custom fishing rods, carefully crafting each one with patience and attention to detail.

More than anything, Martha loved her family. She is survived by her son, Joseph “Joey” Chronister and wife Kay; her daughter, Gena Davis and husband Tommy; grandchildren Haley Chronister, Turner Davis, Hunter Chronister, Julia Davis, and Emily Davis; and great-grandchildren Sailor Mae Chronister and Aiden James.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Harold Gene Chronister; her granddaughter, Heather Chronister; and her parents, Joseph Robert “Joe Bob” Turner and Dora Etta (Polk) Turner.

Visitation will be held Friday, June 19, 2026, from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton.

Martha will be remembered for her strong work ethic, her love of family, her beautiful yard, and her ability to strike up a conversation with just about anyone. The memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: SmithFamilyCares.com.