Martha Merchant Athey Shymansky, 86, of Cobb Island, MD, formerly of Alexandria, VA., passed away on March 10, 2011 at the Charles County Nursing & Rehab Center in La Plata, MD. Born in Washington D.C. on December 14, 1924.

Her husband, Thomas Shymansky preceded her in death as well as her parents, Charles Merchant and Ruth Merchant Ward, and her stepfather, Ray Ward.

She was a bookkeeper for Globe Distributing Co. making payroll and deposits until she came to Cobb Island in 1965. In 1966 she joined the Fire Department Auxiliary, and in 1973, joined the Eastern Star of La Plata and Volunteered for Community Services as well as Election judge.

In the 70's, she hosted Tea Parties in her home for political candidates of the Republican Party. In Alexandria she was with Alexandria Hospital Auxiliary and still belongs to the George Washington Alumni. Cobb Island Auxiliary Past President, Vice President, Secretary, and Chaplain over 40 years. She also belonged to the Southern Maryland Ladies Auxiliary.

Leaving her loving children, Charlene and J.J. Lullen of Orlando, FL, Melanie and Stephen Coe of La Plata, Ervin Athey, Jr. of PA. Grandchildren, Robert Thomas Funk, Jena Coe, Ravi Coe, Amber Schilling, and Erinn Athey. Great Grandchildren; Michael J. Funk, Madison, and Tyler Schilling.

Pallbearers will be, William Lawman, Sr., William (Will) Lawman, Jr., Joey Lawman, Brant Godwin, Allan Shymansky, and Craig London. Honorary Pallbearers will be Harry Shymansky, and Butch Shymansky, Marty Osakowicz, and Michael Cox.

Viewing will take place on Monday, March 14, 2011 from 2-4 pm & 6-8 pm with prayers at 7 pm at the Arehart-Echols Funeral Home, P.A. in La Plata, MD. The funeral mass will be on Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 12 noon at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Issue, MD. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Martha would prefer donations to the Cobb Island Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary.

Arrangements provided by Arehart-Echols Funeral Home, P.A.