Martese Sherrell Gee entered into eternal rest on Friday, January 30, 2026, at her home in Chesterfield, Virginia, just one month after celebrating her 52nd birthday. She was born to the late Angelor Gee Salih and Michael Howard and was baptized at Zion Baptist Church in Petersburg, Virginia. She was truly blessed with a large, loving family who meant everything to her and whom she cherished deeply.

Martese was a beautiful soul whose presence lit up every room she entered. Known for her radiant smile, kind heart, and nurturing spirit, she was a devoted mother, proud grandmother, loving sister, loyal friend, and a source of inspiration to many. She lived her life with grace, compassion, and unwavering love for her family.

Martese was a graduate of Matoaca High School, Class of 1991, where she was very active in school and athletics, including cheerleading. She later attended Norfolk State University, where she also cheered. Following her education, she built an extensive career in hospitality and service, working with Hilton, the State of North Carolina, and Siemens Healthineers.

Martese had a deep love for children and cherished being a mother—never missing an opportunity to support her children at sporting events and milestones. However, nothing brought her greater joy than being a grandmother. Her grandson was the light of her life.

Martese is survived by her children, Ashia Gee, Chris Motton Jr., Anya Mattis, and Carter Mattis; and her beloved grandson, Kai "KG." She is also survived by her sister, Shamika Gaskin (Tyrek); longtime friend, Marcus Bassett; maternal aunts and uncle, Alice Williams (Howard), Daniel Braddix (Roxanne), and Diane Carter; paternal aunts, Deborah Howard, Mary Howard, and Roberta Morgan; father figures, Jawanza Ahmed Salih and Archie Jones; and her beloved godfather, Milton Harris.

She leaves to cherish her memory a host of cousins, including those who were more like sisters: Monica Gee-Roye, Tammy Hardy, and Deshawn Dunbar; nieces and nephews, Tyrek Jr., Hosea Michael, Nieimah, and Nova Gaskin; and many extended family members and friends. In addition, Martese had children who were like her own, Mia, Samea, and Mason.

Martese was preceded in death by her parents, Angelor Gee Salih (Jawanza) and Michael Howard (Dorothy); maternal grandparents, Dorothy and Eddie Gee; paternal grandparents, Dorothy and Samuel Howard; aunt, Patsy McLaughlin (Earle); uncles, Samuel (Mary) and Herbert Howard; and beloved cousins, Tramane and Herbert Howard.

Martese Sherrell Gee will forever be remembered for her beautiful spirit, loving heart, and the countless lives she touched.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shown love, support, and compassion during this difficult time. The children especially appreciate the care and kindness of her Aunt Deborah Howard, Cousin Beverly Harris, Nurse Aides Sandra and Makayla, and the dedicated staff of Southside Regional Medical Center ICU. Your compassion, professionalism, and support will never be forgotten, and the family is truly grateful and thankful for each of you.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Saturday, February 14, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA. The interment to take place at a later time to be announced by the family.

At the family's request, relatives and friends attending the funeral service are asked to wear purple in honor of Martese.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5725748?fl=so&fe=fs