In Remembrance Of
Martha Surls
Martha Jean “Peg” Surls, of Kansas City, MO passed away, June 30, 2024.
She was born on July 11, 1934 to Norton Payne and Marvin Anna (Chestnut) Boydston in Dearborn, MO. Martha graduated from Dearborn High School and attended the Blackwood Brothers School of Music.
On August 14, 1954 she was united in marriage to Merrill John Surls. After their marriage they lived in Independence, IA where Merrill was an Evangelist and Martha played the piano for their weekly television show. They moved to Tulsa, OK where their two sons were born. In 1962 they then moved to Kansas City. The family later moved to Colorado Springs, CO where she played piano and directed a musical ensemble for her church. In the early 90’s they returned to Kansas City where they retired. Martha was a member of Northland Cathedral where sang in the choir. Gospel music was a very important aspect of her life. Martha was a part of a ministry team from her church that shared their music with senior citizens.
She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Stanley Boydston, Howard Boydston, Owen Boydston, Irvin Boydston, M.C. Boydston and sisters, Anna Eunice Palmer, Mildred Lober, and Adella Mae Foxworthy.
Martha Jean is survived by her sons, Mark Surls and Mike (Marie) Surls; grandchildren, Jennifer (David) Carta, Jeremy (Kayli) Surls, Joseph (Jackie) Surls, Jonathan (Katie) Surls, and Jeanelle (Mike) Staffel; great-grandchildren, Cecily, Isabelle, Benjamin, Falon, Zoey, Jackson, Ethan, Tripp, James and London; brother Leonard Boydston; numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.
Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 6th at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Smithville, with visitation at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.
The family is requesting casual dress.
Donations may be made to Northland Cathedral.
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Service Details
10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2024
11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2024
Comments & condolences
6 comments
Rodney Soptic
Martha was definately a kind, sweet, soul. As an advocate here I immediately adored her and took her under my wing as a friend. She was so endearing to me. The way she asked for coffee in the dining room. I know her favorite song was in the good old summertime. I always told her she was my special lady and she said you’re my special man. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those who knew her especially her family and friends she will be lost but not forgotten it always be in our hearts. She was loved by many residents as well as the staff deeply. May she rest in peace God bless everyone
Gelene Matthews
I’m so sorry to hear this bad news. If it was in the paper I didn’t see it. Would have come to funeral.
God Bless Martha Jean.
Karen Hermelink
Bert and I were sorry to learn of Aunt Martha’s passing. We rejoice that she is with the Lord and those who have gone before her and that one day we will see her again. Our condolences to the family and especially to Mark and Mike as they deal with this loss.
Ron and Sharon holt
We’re sorry to hear of Martha’s passing. We knows she’s in heaven now with her husband who went before her and other family members as well. We were blessed to know Martha quite well when we were singing in northlands choir for many years. Our loss snd heavens gain.
Sandra Price
I loved Aunt Martha so much. She always had a smile and her laughter was musical. Stylish lady, beautiful voice and talented pianist, yet she would yodel and play games with us. She is missed and my thoughts are with you all.
Mary Boydston
I am so sorry to hear this. She will be missed.