Our beloved mother, stepmother, aunt and friend Martha LuNeal Hailey, 87, died peacefully at home in Port Hueneme on the morning of Dec. 21, 2005, after a long, valiant struggle with cancer and a host of other illnesses.

She faced her illness with courage and determination and to the end maintained the good humor and optimism that were her lifelong traits. We mourn her passing, but rejoice in the knowledge that she suffers no more and is enjoying a heavenly reunion with Christ, whom she served faithfully, and her many loved ones who have gone before her.

LuNeal was born April 30, 1918, in Rockmart (Polk County), Ga., to Mattie Lou and Henry Linton Williamson, the seventh of eight children. She was born on the family farm during the early months of the 1918 influenza pandemic and came of age during the Great Depression, learning the tenets of hard work and discipline early in life. LuNeal attended Rockmart public schools, graduated from high school in 1937 and later moved to Atlanta, where she completed studies at Marsh Business College.

LuNeal continued her education throughout her life, taking classes in many areas of interest. As a federal investigator for the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for eight years, her scope of education and employment encompassed social service, history, nursing and legal fields across five states.

LuNeal's true occupation was living life to its fullest as an adventurer, an avid reader, a lover of animals and nature, an aficionado of history and artifacts, a connoisseur of fine foods and an adventuresome cook. She explored the far corners of the globe, sampling local culture and establishing lifelong friendships.

Of all her many interests, LuNeal's most precious possessions were her relationships. She cultivated connections with her family and friends -- new and old, all over the world -- virtually to her final breath. Her generosity and compassion knew no bounds. We were gifted by her presence in our lives.

LuNeal is survived by her son, Peter McReavy; stepdaughter, Jean Bolton; numerous nieces and nephews; and her beloved yellow tabby, PowWow.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edgar J. Hailey; parents; five brothers; and two sisters.

A memorial service celebrating LuNeal's life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 2, 2006, in the sanctuary of St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 1800 South C St., Oxnard. Interment of ashes will be in St. Paul's Columbarium Garden. A friendship luncheon will follow from family and friends in the fellowship hall of the church.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family may send memorial gifts to St. Paul's United Methodist Church Endowment Fund or Emergency Service Fund; FOOD Share, 4156 N. Southbank Drive, Oxnard, CA 93036; or Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association hospice program, 1996 Eastman Ave., Suite 101, Ventura, CA 93003.

Arrangements are under the direction of Conrad-Carroll Mortuary.



Published in the Ventura County Star from 12/31/2005 - 1/3/2006.