Martha B. Cleveland, lovingly known as “Mimi,” passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the age of 79.

Born on May 30, 1946, in Birmingham, Alabama, Martha was the cherished daughter of Raymond Charles Backus and Nell Katherine Stucker Backus, both of whom preceded her in death. She grew up in Birmingham, Alabama and graduated from Shades Valley High School. She attended Mississippi State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, beginning a lifelong passion for teaching and service.

Martha had an eclectic professional career. She served as a real estate broker for a period of time as well as a special education and literacy teacher, where she touched countless lives with her patience, compassion, and unwavering belief in her students. While she served her community through a variety of volunteer positions and organizations, her primary service was being exceptionally devoted to her family. She truly never met a stranger, and her warmth and kindness made everyone feel welcomed and valued. Beyond her professional life, she found joy in serving her community, especially through her work with animal shelters, as well as expressing her love of art.

Martha is survived by her husband of 58 years, O.A. Cleveland of Starkville, Mississippi; her daughter, Christina Cleveland (Lawrence Eddingfield) of Fairhope, Alabama; her son, Tres Cleveland (Keleigh) of Birmingham, Alabama; and her treasured grandchildren, Lesley Charlton, Kate Charlton, Ryan Charlton, Mary Cambree Cleveland, and Anna Cleveland. Her family was the heart of her life, and she took immense pride in each of them.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on June 13 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis at the Point, 17280 Scenic Highway 98, Fairhope, Alabama.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to The Haven Animal Shelter in Fairhope Alabama, in honor of Martha’s deep love and compassion for animals.

Martha will be remembered for her gentle spirit, generous heart, and the lasting impact she made on all who knew her.

Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.