For nearly four decades, Robbins resident Kathy Martindale has poured her heart into serving others. Whether behind the wheel of a school bus, helping families in need, or cheering on student-athletes, Kathy has become a quiet but steady force of kindness in Northern Moore County.
Kathy has dedicated almost four decades to Moore County Schools, driving a bus for 38 years and serving as a substitute teacher for nearly 40. Her days often begin before sunrise and end long after dark, but she wouldn’t have it any other way.
“For me, it’s all about the kids,” Kathy said with a smile. “I love the kids, and I enjoy being around them.”
When she’s not behind the wheel or in the classroom, it’s not unusual to see Kathy going the extra mile. She often gives families rides to the store, makes sure kids get to school safely, and lends a helping hand wherever she’s needed. Her caring spirit took shape early in life.
“I learned from an early age that I should help those in need,” she said. “My Mom, Dad, and especially both of my Grandmas taught me that.”
Although she has always had a caring and giving heart, she really began to focus on helping others in 2016 when her husband Bobby became ill and later passed.
“I had so much help when Bobby got sick; so many people helped me in different ways,” Kathy said. “After that is really when I became dedicated to helping people who need it.”
Kathy’s dedication doesn’t stop at the schoolhouse door. She’s also been an active officer in the North Moore Athletic Boosters for years, driving team buses, working the concession stands, and selling Mustang merchandise under the Friday night lights. Her energy and enthusiasm make her a familiar face at countless games and events.
Kathy has also served as treasurer for Robbins Area Christian Ministries, the community’s food bank, since its founding in the 1980s.
“We started with clothes and a thrift store,” she recalled. “In the ’90s, we realized the area needed a food bank, so we closed the thrift store and focused on food.”
Every other Saturday, you can find Kathy in the food bank line, greeting every person with a warm smile and a kind word.
“I enjoy doing it,” she said. “I enjoy helping people.”
Her faith is also important in her life. Kathy has attended First Wesleyan Church in Robbins all her life; it’s the only church she’s ever called home. Over the years, she has served in many roles: Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School helper, and now as a member of the church board.
“I’ve been there all my life,” she said proudly.
Family is at the heart of everything she does. Kathy and her late husband raised three daughters, Beth, Paula, and April, who have now blessed her with five granddaughters and four great-grandchildren.
When her girls were younger, she served as a Girl Scout leader and volunteered at their school activities. What began as a way to stay close to her children and earn a little extra income has turned into a lifelong calling.
What keeps her focused and driven after giving her all every day for four decades? It’s her strong faith that guides her every day.
“I try to live by what the Bible says, the best I can,” she shared. “Living by the Ten Commandments has always been important to me.” Psalm 23, in particular, is her source of comfort and strength.
“I know it’s a lot of people’s favorite, but I love it,” she said.
After decades of service, Kathy still radiates the same warmth and dedication she had from the start. Her story is one of faith, family, and selfless love, a reminder that community is built by people who give their all, day after day.
To nominate someone to be featured in this series, please send your suggestions to [email protected].
Feature photo: Kathy Martindale/Contributed photo.
~Article by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Curtis Self. Curtis has been writing for Sandhills Sentinel since 2019.
For Moore news delivered straight to your inbox, please click here to sign up for the free Sandhills Sentinel e-newsletter.
