August 19, 1946 – May 7, 2022
On Saturday May 7, 2022, we suffered a great loss when God in his infinite wisdom summoned one of his angels, Martha Branch Fisher, better known as “Cookie.” She went home while at Riverview on the Appomattox Health & Rehab Center. Born on August 19, 1946, she was a resident of Petersburg and attended Southside High School.
“Cookie” was employed at Battlefield Convalescent Home where she retired after over 15 years of service. While serving on the Ministry Committee at Unity Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia, she was a dedicated member of the church. She was well known for her infectious laugh and beautiful smile that would illuminate the room. Her most joyous moments were spent with her sons, grandchildren, and family. Her loving presence will be missed by all.
“Cookie” was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin Branch and Mary Ryals; three brothers, Theodore Ryals, Melvin Branch, and Leroy Ryals.
She leaves to cherish her precious memories to her devoted husband of 60 years, Bernard L. Fisher Jr; her three sons, Bernard L. Fisher III (LaVerne) of Clarksville, TN, Bryant L. Fisher of Petersburg, VA, and Kirk L. Fisher (Sherita) of Chester, VA; her seven grandchildren, Quinton, Marquise, Robert, HaDiya, Kiara, Morgan, Kirk Jr. (“KJ”); and her two great-granddaughters Jazmirah and Amiyah; to include those who will have everlasting memories are her four siblings, Artura Holloway, Wesley Spriggs Jr., Deloris Hamlin, and James Ryals; two sisters-in-law, Rose Thornhill and Audrey Fisher; and two brothers-in-law, Arthur Fisher (Barbara) and Kenneth Fisher (Betty); a host of nieces and nephews and devoted friends, Ernestine Moore, Lily Walker, Dee Weaver, Ray Walker, Kim, Brenda Jefferson, Joyce Venable, Crystal Baugh, and Jean Whitfield.
Homegoing service will be held 1 P.M., Friday, May 13, 2022 at Unity Baptist Church, 330 S South St., Petersburg, VA., 23803, Rev. Nathaniel Quick, officiate and Rev. Clarence Thweatt, eulogy. Interment will follow at Southlawn Memorial Park, 1911 Birdsong Rd., Petersburg, VA., 23805. The immediate family will assemble one hour prior to the service at the residence.