Martha Emaline Gamble Fries, 57, died on Thursday, February 14 at her home in Ooltewah.
Martha was born in Chattanooga area and grew up in Benton, Tn. She graduated from Middle Tennessee State University before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. After military service she lived in Bastrop, Texas.
Martha served in Operation Desert Storm. She attained the rank of Captain and received numerous decorations. She was also a member of the American Legion and the Women's Auxiliary of VVA Chapter 203.
She was a member of Oakwood Baptist church and the Adult Sunday School Class. Martha was an avid gardener. She loved shopping, cooking and entertaining. She was known for dignity and excellence in everything she did.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley White and Dewey and Nora Gamble; her grandparents and her beloved pet, Haley.
Martha is survived by her loving husband of 22 years, Don A. Fries; brothers, Paul (Teresa) Gamble, David (Kathy) Gamble and Roger (Teresa) White; sister, Angela (Olin) Harris; stepmom, Bonnie White; sisters-in-law, Donna (Armando) Gonzales and Janet Ward; brother-in-law, James Fries; her dear friends, Lisa McDaniel and Jean O'Rear and many nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 17, at the North Chapel. Funeral services will follow at 4 p.m. on Sunday at North Chapel with Reverend Ken Clark officiating.
Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 18, at Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McKamey Animal Care and Adoption Center, 4500 North Access Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37415.
Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343.