Marthene Talley Penn

In 1932, the sitting president of the United States, Herbert Hoover, called it, “one of the worst years in history” with the economic depression and unemployment being 24% - the highest in US history!  There were several monumental events that occurred nationwide, particularly in the month of September.  Our country witnessed Amelia Earhart‘s first solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean and much to our dismay the parking meter was invented.

But in the tiny borough of Lithia Springs, Georgia it was a good year indeed.  September 25 brought new life to the Talley household; Marthene Talley was born as the thirteenth of the soon-to-be sixteen children.  As the household grew, Marthene acquired the name “Tot” because she was small framed throughout her youth and adolescence. But God was kind to her and she became a giant amongst her family, close friends, and the church community.

I had the privilege of meeting this charming 91-year-old woman and she allowed me to take this powerful life’s journey, which reflected on her love for God and her commitment to family. Her recollection is impeccable and she is clear, remembering the who, what, and where of those events which impacted her life. She even penned a book that documents the happenings of COGIC in the state of Georgia before there were jurisdictions.  She has books, articles, and numerous photos, not only focused on church history but memorable events in our community.  Would you believe in her spare time she does crossword and jigsaw puzzles?

Her parents who were married in 1914 were members of the Church of God in Christ, so yes, the entire family was involved.  She became involved with the Young People Willing Workers as the secretary and lent herself to all other areas of ministry.  She worked fervently to oversee all programs for special occasions and Mother Penn would proudly say she was “born in the Grand ole Church of God in Christ.”

“Do Not Despise These Small Beginnings….”

In the early 1960s, several families made up the congregation of the Tabernacle Church of God in Christ (fondly called the “Tin Tabernacle”). The facility was built with metal and cinder blocks because of the threat from the Klu Klux Klan – no bathrooms were installed. The Talley family was one of the families and they were extremely instrumental in the early days of the Tabernacle.  Mother Penn's sister was the wife of Pastor Roy Hardin, Sr. so this was truly a “family affair.” Under Pastor Hardin’s leadership, and after a major building fund, a beautiful edifice was constructed which stands even today.  The Tabernacle recently celebrated its church centenary –100 years!

Mother Penn is an independent, self-sufficient, and very determined woman of God.  For many years she worked as a domestic, employed by some very prominent Atlanta families, including the Ernest T. Barrett family. She also worked for a nationally known pediatrician, who had his practice in Marietta.  Although she only completed the 11th grade, Mother Penn decided to go to night school to obtain her GED.  Soon after, she went and got her nursing assistant certification and later her LPN license. After thirty years with Kennestone (WellStar), Mother Penn was able to retire. This was all while she was married and raising a family.  Unfortunately, her husband Horace went to be with the Lord at the young age of 58 in 1985.  Brother Penn’s family was a part of the Missionary Baptist in Powder Springs, Ga.  His grandfather was appointed Overseer on a National level. All through the years, Brother Penn loved and supported his family in the Church of God in Christ.

Her Children Arise, and Call Her Blessed…

In her years in ministry, served with some of the most powerful leaders in the COGIC and she is known throughout the State.  In Marietta, She served under Bishop James Hinsley who pastored the Avery Street COGIC and orchestrated the move to the Central Georgia Jurisdiction.  Due to urban renewal (gentrification), and the Marietta area becoming more diversified, the church grew rapidly. Avery Street relocated and changed the name to Hinsley Chapel Church of God in Christ, honoring the now-late Bishop Hinsley.  In the early 90’s Bishop Chandler Owens was appointed pastor and he became a powerful voice throughout the Marietta and surrounding areas.  Before Bishop Owens transitioned in 2011, he approved the change of name – Greater Community Church of God in Christ – indicative of the mission that God had given the church - to be a beacon of holiness and to serve the community.

From the “Tin Tabernacle” to the Greater Community Church of God in Christ, Mother Penn continues to be a faithful Mother – the mother with the longest tenure. She now serves with pride under another giant in ministry, the inspiring Bishop Matthew L. Brown. It is such a joy to see her on those Sunday mornings, smiling and greeting those of us who admire her. Her strength and wisdom have graced her to raise her four children, Barbara, Evangeline (Vann) Timothy, and Micah; they are all connected to COGIC and have very fond memories of the early ministry, therefore, Mother Penn’s grandchildren, a fourth generation, continue this great legacy.  The love for God was instilled in Mother Penn at an early age and true to the call that’s been on her life, she has felt the obligation to pass it on to her children and children’s children!     

We celebrate you, Mother Penn, and wish you many more years of telling “Your Story.”