Smithfield – Martha Lou Batten Griggs, age 85, passed away Monday August 21, 2023. She was born in Johnston County on November 20, 1937 to the late Fonzer Leon Batten and Vivian Aycock. In addition to her father and mother, she is also preceded in death by husband, Ralph Griggs; daughter, Tracie Hildebrand; granddaughter, Juanita Baker.

A private graveside service will be held on Friday August 25, 2023.

Martha is survived by daughters, Rebecca Pettigrew of Dunn, Patsy Stanley and husband Donald of Selma, Kathy Simmons of Dunn, Sharon Prince and husband Walter of Durham, Mary Ann Griggs and Franklin Davis of Seven Springs; grandchildren, Donna Smith, Paul Simmons, Liza Simmons, Josh Griggs, Alex Griggs, Ray Vazquez, Cody Griggs, Jacob Griggs, Nina Barefoot, Dewayne Mitchell; 16 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren.

Martha loved puzzles, reading, basketball and baseball.

In addition to flowers memorial contributions may be sent to St Jude's Children's Hospital 501 St. Jude Place • Memphis, TN 38105