Martha’s son John died of camp fever on November 5, 1781, near Yorktown.
On November 5, 1781, John Parke Custis, serving as an aide to George Washington, died of camp fever near Yorktown. His death left Martha without her only surviving son, a significant emotional blow. She and George Washington took in Custis's children, ensuring their upbringing and education, reinforcing their commitment to family responsibilities amidst national tumult.