Hi. I was born in Wallace, NC, and raised in Jacksonville, NC. I had a very happy childhood and we attended church on Sunday, but were not really involved with serving the Lord through the church. Actually, in high school I went to the Baptist Church on Sunday morning and the Methodist Church at night. I attended Atlantic Christian College because my friends did. It was not what I now know as a Christian college.
I went into student teaching, because some of my friends did. I know now that the Lord led me into teaching because I could glorify Him there. I taught middle school for 5 years in Chesapeake, VA, met Jack Rhoton there, and we got married. I taught at Blackwater Elementary in Scott County, and at Sevier Middle School. I stayed home with my family for 7 years having fun with my children, Tammi and Jeremy. I returned to teaching and ended up for 24 years at Sullivan South High School. I loved teaching and I know that the Lord put me there to lead others to Christ. He used me in so many ways during the 31 years I taught. I am very blessed to have had such an amazing career in teaching.
I am also very blessed with a loving husband, children, and grandchildren. Our son Jeremy is pastor at Eastside Baptist Church in Elizabethton. He and Marsha have 6 fantastic children!! Tammi is a singer/songwriter in Nashville and leads worship in her church. She works to serve the Lord in many other areas. Again, soooooo blessed.
I have taught Sunday School class for many, many years at Indian Springs Baptist Church. What an encouragement and blessing these ladies are!!! I have a passion for Missions and love working with WMU. Hummm....I started to again say what a blessing. Every area of my life is a blessing from the Lord!
I was an English major, but an art minor in college. Last year I started acrylic painting and I love that!!! In addition to being Craft Nana to the grand kids, I really do stay busy. I retired from teaching school in 2008, and I love that I can choose to be with my family and Christian friends.
The Lord has always comforted me and lead me throughout my life. He has always been there through ups and downs, and He is my strength. What a Savior! I truly am blessed!
Martha Rhoton
ISBC Member since 1974
