Martha Butler Gaskins

Martha Butler Gaskins, 78, of Charleston, SC passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 23, 2026.

Martha was born May 15, 1947, in Charleston, SC to William and Mary Reilly. Martha attended both James Island and St. Johns High School. She was employed by Edwards five and dime store until their closing in 1977. Following Edward's closing, she went to work for Coburg Dairy for 32 years doing numerous tasks. Martha married Ronald Harry Gaskins on February 17, 1982 and remained married until his passing in October 14, 2016. While married, Martha and Harry raised two children together.

Martha loved spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoyed taking in nature's beauty at the beach, getting her hands dirty with yard work and gardening and solving word puzzles.

Martha is preceded in death by her husband, Ronald Harry Gaskins and her parents, William and Mary Reilly. She is survived by her two children, William Charles Butler (Michele) and Elizabeth Butler Kelly; two sisters, Fran Kirkpatrick (Ralph) and Patricia Haselden. Martha leaves her memory with her three grandchildren, Billy Kelly (Lacey), Bailey Kelly and Samantha Louden (Trey). Her memory and love remains also in the hearts of her great-grandchildren, Brookelynn and Kennedy.

The family of Mrs. Martha Butler Gaskins would like to give many thanks and prayers of gratitude and appreciation to the kind and gentle caretakers at Quality Care Residential Home in Goose Creek, SC. Martina and her wonderful staff gave Martha many friends and a wonderful place to live out her life while battling dementia. The family would also like to thank Wren Hospice and Lauren, RN, for making Martha's precious last days peaceful. The family would also like to acknowledge life-long friends of Martha's, Richard and Carol Teston, for their love and support during this time of grief.

Her Funeral Service will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the James A. McAlister Chapel, 1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary, 5604 New Road, Hollywood, SC 29449 and MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children's Hospital, c/o MUSC Foundation, 18 Bee Street Charleston, SC 29425.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.