Martha Ahalt

Martha Susan Ahalt, 81, a life-long resident Salem, Va., passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father; and her sister, Sara Lynn Ahalt.

Susan was a graduate of Andrew Lewis High School, Lynchburg College (now the University of Lynchburg), and the MALS program at Hollins University. A career educator, Susan retired from Bedford County Schools, where she taught history and government for over thirty years at Liberty High School.

Susan, an avid reader, possessed an impressive personal library of books that spanned every corner of knowledge. Her final days were spent wondering what book she should start next. She enjoyed traveling, particularly to Europe and her favorite destination, Ireland. She loved gardening, cooking, and entertaining, and was a surprisingly knowledgeable fan of a variety of sports, including NFL football, the NBA, the PGA, and NASCAR. Susan enjoyed a friendly debate and was a wonderful conversationalist.

Susan's two passions in retirement were her role as a soprano in the choir at Salem Presbyterian Church, where she was a devoted member, and her longtime membership in the Friends of the Salem Library, serving as Secretary for a number of years. She was recently honored by the FOSL with the Helen Robertson Award for dedication and extended service.

Susan is survived by many Otey and Ahalt cousins, including Ken and Janet Otey, Mary Lee Otey, Jo Ellen Otey, Chris and Susan Ahalt, Ann Ahalt Pond, Nancy Brooks, and Sara Ahalt; and special friends, George and Becky George, Sydney Nordt, Ken Sosnowski, Kitty Beehner, Renai Nunley, and Mark Williams.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem, Va., with Pastor Chris Vogado of Salem Presbyterian Church officiating.

Charitable contributions may be made to either the Salem Presbyterian Church or the Salem Historical Society. Online condolences may be expressed at www.johnmoakey.com.