Martha Hickman Ostendorff

Martha Elaine Hickman Ostendorff, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. She was 82. Martha was born in Millen, Ga. on December 6, 1943 to the late Sidney Alexander Hickman and Alva Hillis Hickman. She is preceded in death by her sister Barbara Hickman Wilson; and her daughter Angela Scot Hixon.

She is survived by her son, David Alan Ostendorff, Jr. (Stacy); son in law, Les Hixon; five grandchildren, Kate Savoy (Tyler), Caroline Leggio (Brandon), Anna Scot Hixon (Aaron), Dylan Suess, and Elizabeth Ostendorff; and four great-grandchildren, Tyler Joseph “TJ” Savoy, Elaine Leggio, and Beau and Scottie Daniels.

Martha was raised in Waynesboro, Georgia and was valedictorian of Waynesboro High School in 1961. She went on to attend Women’s College of Georgia, where she graduated with a degree in Chemistry. Immediately after graduating college, she moved to Augusta, where she began a 33 year career in the Endocrinology Department of Medical College of Georgia.

Outside of work, Martha devoted much of her life to caring for others. She was a selfless mother, grandmother, and friend. She had a love for animals and was known for taking in and caring for stray cats and dogs, always making sure they were fed, safe, and loved.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was actively involved in her church community with Advent Lutheran Church. She generously gave her time helping with organization, planning, and supporting church activities wherever she was needed.

Martha treasured the time she spent with her friends, sister, and cousins, creating lifelong memories through gatherings, conversations, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

More than anything, she deeply loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was involved in their lives in countless meaningful ways, from smocking beautiful clothes for her grandchildren that are now worn by her great-grandchildren, to spending time making crafts, reading stories, and creating traditions they will always cherish.

She was an avid reader who shared her love of books with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, passing along not only stories, but also a lifelong appreciation for learning and imagination.

After retiring, Martha devoted much of her time to helping care for her granddaughter, Elizabeth. Their bond was incredibly special, and the love, guidance, and memories they shared will remain a lasting part of Elizabeth’s life forever.

Martha will always be remembered for her caring heart, her generosity, her fierce independence, her devotion to family, and the love she poured into the lives of those around her. 

The family would like to thank the ladies of the Grove Community at Barclay House for the care they gave Martha for the last three years.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors. A private burial service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com