Last updated on: August 23, 2025
When we hear of music legends such as Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson, their origins often remain unknown. Behind the curtains, there was one woman who contributed significantly to the legacy of the Jackson family. That woman is Janet Jackson’s grandmother, Martha Mattie Upshaw. She lived a rather quiet life but contributed in numerous ways to the family. Let us get to know her story.
Quick Facts About Martha Upshaw
| Full Name | Martha Mattie Upshaw |
| Birthdate | December 14, 1907 |
| Occupation | Homemaker / Family Matriarch |
| Husband/Wife | Prince Albert Scruse (1907–1997) |
| Death | 25 April 1990 |
| Age at Death | 82 years old |
| Parents | Daniel Upshaw & Jennetta Brown |
| Siblings | Not Known |
| Children | Katherine Esther Scruse (Katherine Jackson) |
| Grandchildren | La Toya Jackson, Rebbie Jackson, Jackie Jackson, Tito Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Brandon Jackson, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Randy Jackson |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life
Martha Mattie Upshaw was born on December 14, 1907, at Jernigan, Russell County, Alabama. She was born to parents Daniel Upshaw and Jennetta Brown. Both the parents were aged 21 when Martha was born. She came of age during the years when life was not smooth for African-American households in the South. There were limited opportunities, and diligence was the sole method of progression.
Martha learned the importance of family and religion from an early age. These are lessons she carried with her even after many years. They also formed the nucleus of the generations that succeeded.
Marriage and Family Life
Martha wed Prince Albert Scruse. He was born on October 16, 1907, and survived until 1997. They had a family based on good values. One of their children was Katherine Esther Scruse, otherwise known as Katherine Jackson.
Katherine grew up to marry Joseph Jackson, and together they brought up the well-known Jackson children. Martha became the grandmother of world music icons such as Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson, through Katherine. This relationship makes Martha a key player in the Jackson family history.
Her Role in the Jackson Family
Martha Upshaw was not in the limelight like her grandchildren. She liked a private existence. But her impact was tremendous. She instilled in her children love, respect, and belief. Katherine used to say a lot about the strong family ethos she received from her mother.
Those values influenced the Jackson family in Gary, Indiana. While Joe Jackson was concerned with the music careers of his children, Katherine gave them emotional nourishment. This equilibrium of discipline and nurturing came from what Katherine had learned from Martha.
Her Later Years
Martha spent her later years in close proximity to her family. She cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In spite of their celebrity, the Jackson family never lost touch with their heritage, and Martha was an integral part of that.
Unfortunately, Martha Upshaw died in April 1990. It was reported to be the 29th or 30th of April, and her reason for death was heart failure. She was aged 82. Her death was a major loss to the family but not forgotten by her children and grandchildren.
READ ALSO: Janet Jackson Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Legacy
Martha’s legacy is more than a name on a family tree. She is strength, love, and perseverance. Had she not been there as guidance, the Jackson family tale would likely have been quite different. Her impact can be found today in Katherine Jackson’s dedication to family and the accomplishments of her grandchildren.
When Janet Jackson is celebrated or Michael Jackson is remembered by fans, they are celebrating the origins of the family too. Martha Upshaw’s life makes us realize that solid beginnings build solid futures.
