Martha Ruffin Gravely Burgess, age 95, died on July 18, 2026 following a period of declining health.
She was predeceased by her father John Augustine Ruffin II, her mother MaryBall Saunders Ruffin, her sister MaryBall Ruffin Ellett, her brothers, John A. Ruffin III, Edmund Saunders Ruffin, and Archer Harrison Ruffin; and her nephew Michael Quinn Ruffin. Martha was also predeceased by her first husband John O. W. Gravely III.
She is survived by her husband Robert L. Burgess of Williamsburg, VA; her son J. O. Winston Gravely IV (Mary) of Richmond, VA; her stepchildren Marc Burgess (Katherine) and Barbara Garrett (Don) and her step son-in-law Nik Papamihail (Ria). She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren Harrison Gravely, Eva Gravely, Michael Papamihail (Jessica), Alexis Papamihail, and Tyler Garrett. She leaves two great-grandchildren Emma Papamihail and Elisha Papamihail. Martha also leaves her sister-in-law Susan Gravely Wingfield along with many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Martha graduated from St. Catherine’s School in Richmond, VA and Wheelock College in Boston, MA. After the untimely and tragic death of her husband, Martha took over John’s role as President and Publisher of the Virginia Gazette in Williamsburg from 1975 – 1985. As remembered by former Publisher Bill O’Donovan, some people in the community likened her favorably to Mrs. Pynchon, the imperious and aristocratic publisher on the show “Lou Grant.” O’Donovan recalls, “Martha wasn’t imperious. She was resolute.” Martha made a wise decision to sell the paper to Chesapeake Publishing Co. in Maryland. The Gazette went on to prosper as a highly aggressive and successful newspaper.
Martha was a member of Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, serving on their Finance Board. She also served on the Board of Directors at First Virginia Bank and was a member of the Colonial Dames. Martha was a Director of Chesapeake Storage Corporation.
The family wishes to express gratitude beyond words to Marie Peterson CNA; Rona Neubia and the Golden Years Caregivers; the staff at HRC of the Williamsburg Landing; and ACG Hospice.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Westover Episcopal Church, 6401 John Tyler Highway, Charles City, VA 23030; Bruton Parish Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 3520, Williamsburg, VA 23187 or a charity of your choice.
