Martha Jane Black was born November 12, 1928, in Reidsville, NC.  As a child, she attended Branch Street Elementary School.

In 1946, Martha married Raymond W. Black in Reidsville, NC. Her husband's occupation caused them to travel to many cities. They settled their roots in New York in Jamaica, Queens for several years. The couple was blessed with three children, Raymond Edward Black, Renee Denise Black, and Ronald Gary Black (deceased).  She was an at-home mom for many years before returning to the workforce.  She extended her education and studied to become a dietary aid.  She was employed by many hospitals but retired from Coney Island Hospital after approximately 30 years of service.

Martha attended church faithfully. She volunteered in many church activities.  She served as a Deaconess and a member of the Usher Board. These ministries afforded her the opportunity to travel with the church throughout the United States and abroad.  Later, she relocated to Sacramento, CA to be near her daughter, Renee Overton where she resided for twelve years.  In 2002, she came home to Reidsville to be close to her sister, Fannie Lou and other family. Her daughter wanted her to relocate back to Sacramento to be near her as she was getting older. Martha spent most of her time with the church where she continued her volunteer work.

She leaves to cherish fond memories:  two children, Raymond E. Black and Renee Overton; grandchildren, Raymond I. Black, Deadra R. Black, Romaine A. Black, Wednesday I. Alexander, and Rhea Overton; great-grandchildren, Sean Black, Suriel Black, Rasjid Black, Rashad Black, Malik Black, Kurihal Black, Mariah Black, Sania Washington, Tanzania Washington, Forever Black, and Cairo Black; great-great-grandchildren, Kyla Black and Isis Black; nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives.