Martha M. Browning

Martha M. Browning, 98, of Versailles passed away at 8 a.m., Sunday, November 12, 2023 at her home. She was born in Benham on June 13, 1925, the daughter of Benjamin and Sara Benefiel Buchanan. She was married to Don Browning on June 28, 1942 and he preceded her in death on March 24, 1979. Survivors include one son Keith (Kathy) Browning of Pasadena, California; two daughters Sherri Baier of Georgia and Robin Browning of Versailles; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Beverly Browning; sister-in-law Mary Buchanan Smith of Benham. She was also preceded in death by her parents, her sons Robert and John, her brothers Emmett, James, Wilkie, and Kenneth Buchanan and her sisters Faye Ramsey and Naomi Peaslee. 

Mrs. Browning grew up in the Benham community and attended the Benham School. Her and Don began Browning’s Campground east of Versailles in 1974 and Martha operated this until her retirement in 2021 at the age of 96. Prior to owning the campground she and Don had owned and operated the Greasy Spoon restaurant on the Square in Versailles. Martha was a member of the Eastern Star and attended the Shelby Christian Church. Funeral services will be private with burial in the Benham Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Benham Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.