Martha Mae Bowen Besse, 75, of Wilmington passed away on Tuesday, August 9, 2016 at New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

She was born on January 31, 1941 in Jacksonville, FL and was the daughter of the late Lester and Martha Jones Bowen. She was also predeceased by her sons, Philip Self and Ronald Self; brother, Eddie Bowen; and son-in-law, Wade Walker

Martha was a praying mother who left her children with a legacy of faith and love. She loved to spend time cooking, had a great sense of humor and enjoyed being in the company of her family especially around the holidays.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving children, Martha Bernard of Wilmington, Jack Self III and wife Dee of Florida, Donna Furr and husband Jerry of Leland, William Self and wife Sheila of Carthage, Lester Self of Columbia, SC, Lisa Blanks of Leland and Tina Hewett and husband Lee of Supply, NC; step daughter, Vickie Cradeur; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; sister, Rosella Falcon and husband, Ralph of Morgan City, Louisiana; brother, Tommy Bowen and wife, Virginia of Windermere, CA; and numerous other loving family.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on Friday, August 12, 2016 at Quinn McGowen Wilmington Chapel.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 13, 2016 at Quinn-McGowen Wilmington Chapel with the Reverend Allen Grey officiating. Burial will follow in Federal Point UMC Cemetery.

Memorials in Martha's honor may be made to St. Judes Children's Hospital.

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Quinn McGowen Wilmington Chapel, 315 Willow Woods Drive, Wilmington, NC 28409. 910.794.7171