Dr. Martha Manning Pointer

“A person of influence”: Dr. Martha Manning Pointer, 74, of Johnson City, TN, passed away February 25th, 2024 from complications of metastatic cancer.

An energetic, strong-willed woman, Dr. Pointer graduated from University High School in 1967 and went on to earn degrees from Tennessee Technological University (B.S. 1972), East Tennessee State University (M.A., 1977; M.B.A., 1981), and the University of South Carolina (PhD, 1992). She served as a CPA for a number of years and was a member of the American Accounting Association, the TN Society of Public Accountants, and Institute Management Accountants. Teaching was her lifelong calling, however. After successfully completing her PhD studies, Dr. Pointer returned to ETSU to teach accounting in the College of Business for over 30 years, with many students citing Dr. Pointer as one of their all-time favorite professors.

The twinkle in her eyes, her contagious laugh, and her rambunctious spirit brought life to whatever activity she lit upon, whether that was organizing a girl scouting camp, troubleshooting an academic situation, or attempting to keep her sisters out of trouble.

More than anything, though—Martha loved to step up. She was ready at any given moment to serve; she loved solving problems and helping out in tangible or intangible ways. Her spirit of generosity was treasured by everyone fortunate enough to know her: “She was a joy to get to work with.” Even in her last days, she was asking earnestly, “But what can I do for you?”

She is preceded by her loving husband Robert L. Pointer, Jr as well as her parents, Ambrose N. Manning and Mary D. Manning. She is survived by two sons, Robert Lee Pointer III (husband Rus) of San Jose, CA, and Charles Katt (wife Emily) of Johnson City, TN; two grandchildren, Taro and Mira Katt, both of Johnson City, TN; three dear sisters, Mary Lou Eisenbise of Sarasota, FL, Margaret Ann Casado of Columbus, OH, and Marie Frank of Abingdon, VA; as well as many treasured nieces and nephews.

Martha's memorial celebration of life gathering is planned for all her friends and family on Sunday March 10th, in room 202 Sam Wilson Hall on the ETSU campus, open-house style from 2pm to 5pm. Her cremains will be interred near her parents in Monte Vista Memorial Park at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully accepts donations for the Dr.

Martha Pointer business scholarship at East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Avenue Johnson City, Tennessee 37601, is honored to serve the family of Martha Pointer. 423-282-1521.