HATTERAS — Nola Estelle Martin Gray/ne Nola Estelle Fletcher, born in New London, Connecticut, and a long-time resident of Hatteras Village, passed away on July 2, 2024, at the age of 97. She spent her youth in Groton, CT, and later years in Norwich, CT. Nola was born on June 10, 1927. She was predeceased by her parents, William Leslie Fletcher and Nola Estelle Leffingwell of Groton, CT, her husbands, Bob Martin and Jr. Gray, and her brother, Robert Fletcher, who leaves behind his wife, Donna Fletcher.
Nola is survived by her three children, Robin Boots, Diane Martin-Kelly and husband William (Ron) Kelly, and Robert E. Martin Jr. and wife Joanne (Jo) Martin. There are six grandchildren: William Bradford Boots and Benjamin Boots and his wife Stacey, Maitland E. F. Kelly and Rachele (Kelly) Morris and husband Craig Morris, and Harry and George Martin. Nola is also remembered by her six great-grandchildren (Conor, Ansley, Sabrina, Nicholas, Brad Jr, and Samantha) as well as eight great-great-grandchildren.
Her first husband, Robert (Bob) E. Martin Sr., and she were married for 38 years (9-22-1946). They left Connecticut 48 years ago, moving to Hatteras Village to retire to a more peaceful setting. Bob passed away in 1984. After Bob’s death, she later married Damon Meekins Gray (Jr.). They were married for 23 years until his death in 2013. She was a strong woman that lived life on her terms, as the independent New England woman she was, living her life to its fullest. Once she made up her mind, there was not much that could change it.
Nola’s family was her pride and joy, visiting her often in Hatteras through the years. She had many passions, some of which were her many flowers and plants. She fell while attending to her plants on her porch and passed away soon after at The Outer Banks Hospital. Some of her many passions were painting, knitting and crocheting, beach combing, cooking, community service, her church, and friends to name only a few. She could not sit still without something to do with her hands, even at the age of 97. Love for her friends and community was of utmost importance to her; she was always there to lend a helping hand. She was a member of the Hatteras United Methodist Church and ran the Saturday summer fish fries for many years. Some of her other accomplishments were as UMW Hatteras, past president of Hatteras Ladies Auxiliary, quilting with the Hatteras Homemakers, knitting chemo hats for cancer patients, making prayer shawls which were given to many on the island, and a member of the Connecticut DAR and Eastern Star. She leaves behind some of her beautiful paintings.
A viewing will be held at Hatteras United Methodist Church on July 23, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm for family and friends. A memorial service will be held at Hatteras United Methodist Church on July 24th at 11:00 am. A potluck lunch will be held at the church following the service. Please feel free to bring something to share. Flowers may be sent to Hatteras United Methodist Church, 57665 North Carolina Hwy 12, Hatteras, NC 27943, or a donation to UMC at PO Box 310, Hatteras, NC 27943, or a donation to a cause/charity of your choice in honor of her memory.
Her spark and creativity will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Nola’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her and in the beautiful art she left behind.
She lived a long and fulfilling life, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Her passing has left a hole that cannot be filled. She will be dearly missed.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.TwifordFH.com.
