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Martha Woods Mallory

1940 - 2024

Martha Woods Mallory obituary, 1940-2024, Charlotte, NC

BORN

1940

DIED

2024

FUNERAL HOME

Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service - Charlotte

1321 Berkeley Avenue

Charlotte, North Carolina

Martha Mallory Obituary

Martha Mallory, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend was born in Chester, SC to Richard and Bettie Elleen Woods. She was predeceased by her wonderful husband of 49 years, Roswell, sister Kathryn Woods Reid and her nephew, David Reid. She is survived by her children, Kathryn Mallory Justis (Peter) and Ros Mallory (Kelli); her five cherished grandchildren, Abigail Justis, Mallory Justis, Jack Mallory, Cole Mallory, and Taylor Mallory; her brother-in-law, Revill Mallory; and many nieces and nephews for whom she loved and kept in close touch.

She shared her full love, complete devotion and all kinds of play and adventure with her family. Any and all sports happened in her backyard and sometimes even in the house. She loved family beach trips to Ocean Isle that have continued for over 50 years with dear friends from Virginia. Outdoor activities were a favorite pastime and she enjoyed camping, retreats and hiking with family and friends. We don't think she missed a game, a match, a meet, or a recital during the years her grandchildren were growing up. Martha and Roswell were their biggest cheerleaders!

Her life was centered in Christ and at First Presbyterian Church. Music was at the heart of her involvement in the church where she found much joy singing with her beloved choir family. She also found ways to lead children's choirs, Weekday School performances, and Christmas carols around her piano. Her talents were used across many areas of the church including when she served as a Deacon, Elder and moderator of Presbyterian Women of which she was an Honorary Life member. She enjoyed outreach ministries, especially tutoring at Westerly Hills Elementary. Martha's spiritual gift of hospitality stands out for so many as she was often the first to greet visitors and new members in the congregation.

Children brought her life such excitement and meaning which led her into the teaching profession. Her 40-year career included four years as a 3rd grade teacher, five years at Selwyn Presbyterian Preschool and 22 years as a kindergarten teacher at Park Road Elementary. She finished her teaching career after 14 years at the First Presbyterian Weekday School.

Martha was quite an athlete. She was a standout high school basketball player at Chester High, a synchronized swimmer at Queens College and a competitive tennis player for many years at Barclay Downs Swim Club. Her athletic prowess let her compete in these sports into her early 80s.

For over 50 years her Wales Avenue home had a front door that was rarely locked, a four-square court at the bottom of the street and tree swings in the backyard. Neighbors, friends, and children were always invited to come play and visit. She was a proud Queens College graduate, and she valued the lifelong friendships she made there as a student and an alumna.

Most recently, she treasured living at The Sharon at SouthPark with friends old and new.

Martha's memorial service will be held Monday, December 9, 2024 at 2:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church, Charlotte. The family will receive visitors after the service in the Wood Fellowship Hall. The memorial service will be livestreamed at https://firstpres-charlotte.org/watch/

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the First Presbyterian Church general fund or music program, 200 West Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204 (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer from Dec. 4 to Dec. 8, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
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Mary Alice Adams

September 17, 2025

I am saddened to have learned of Martha's death. I did not know she had passed. Martha was my son's kindergarten teacher and the best kindergarten teacher any child could been been fortunate enough to have. She understood children and knew how to reach them. Martha and I also were friends at Barclay Downs, where Martha played superb tennis, and where we frequently sat by the pool and chatted while watching our children. More recently, Martha saw me in the stands at a pickle ball match and came over to teach me the tricks of how to play. The world has lost a very special person in Martha. My heart goes out to her children and grandchildren. My sincerest condolences to them.

Kaye McMullen

December 22, 2024

I knew Martha before she was married. She was a true lady. She accomplished so much during her life. I´m privilege to have known her.

Roberta Barrett

December 11, 2024

I was so saddened to hear of Martha´s passing. She was a dear friend and we shared many wonderful tennis weekends at Wild Dunes!

Nancy and Tony Pressley

December 9, 2024

Everyone loved Martha Mallory who knew her. She was a fine lady who sparkled in whatever she did, whether the church choir, circle meetings, or guiding our grandchildren through FPC preschool. Martha always had a happy smile and we will remember her fondly.

Judy Dennis

December 8, 2024

Mrs. Mallory was the ultimate kindergarten teacher and led a whole generation of children through kindergarten with ease. We have thought of her often through the years. My deepest sympathies are with her husband and family in their time of loss. Many prayers go out to her family!

Donna Blair Miller

December 7, 2024

Miss Woods was the best teacher ever! Her name changed during the year I was in her 3rd grade class at Windsor Park. What a wonderful life she had!
Praying for all that were a part of her life.

Margaret martin long

December 7, 2024

Martha was an amazing mom, friend, and inspiration!
She affected everyone with her genuine spirit and love.
She will be greatly missed!
Thinking about you all from afar! Hugs and prayers, margaret long

Nancy Norelli

December 6, 2024

Martha always wore a radiant smile and spoke softly, calmly and with directness. Her rock-solid faith was a constant source of strength for me as she would smile from the choir loft and give a little nod. A prayer was sent heavenward. What would Martha say today? She always showed us the way.
Years ago, at a dinner for new church members, I found a quiet corner to ask Martha about Bob Stone, author of "Where the Buffaloes Roam". With a caring expression, she said simply, "He died." She nodded, paused and continued, "I'm sorry, he died last Monday." She paused again kindly letting me process the fact that this remarkable survivor was gone. She continued, "His last request was that we sing 'Home on the Range' at his funeral reception." Martha smiled - that warm, quiet smile that was just right for the moment.
She then talked about Bob using words that also fit Martha's life to a T. "Bob always knew the right thing to do and say to folks. And, of course, neither he nor anyone else is going to live forever. He was so honest! He always introduced himself as having terminal cancer. He really led the way toward making people feel comfortable about sharing their situations with others. He made it OK to ask for help, as well as prayers. " Indeed, Martha was all these things and more. What a blessing in our lives!

Barbara McArthur

December 6, 2024

I am so heartbroken to hear that Martha has passed away. She has been a wonderful close friend for many years and I feel truly blessed to have had her in my life. We have lost such a wonderful, caring friend. There are no words that can express the depth of sadness that we feel on loosing her so suddenly. God now has a wonderful angel at his side. I can just hear her singing the hymns she so loved. Martha you will be missed by so many people that have been blessed to call you their friend.

Lucile Jackson

December 6, 2024

Anything I did with Martha was so fun, often competitive, and wholesome. I will truly miss her.
Love to her family.

john tate

December 6, 2024

How I loved Martha Mallory...a real sweetheart...that sparkle in her eye...that playful spirit. Always upbeat. Always loving. I will miss her so

Sally Blythe

December 5, 2024

Martha is one of the reasons I came to The Sharon. She welcomed me with open arms after I met her daughter and told her that I was interested in The Sharon. We met on the front porch of her cottage and I knew that if people like Martha loved it I would too. She will be greatly missed. Sally Blythe

Julie Farrington Rummage

December 5, 2024

Oh my goodness. Mrs. Mallory was my 3rd grade teacher at Windsor Park. She was a wonderful and energetic teacher. May her memory be a blessing to her family and loved ones.

R. O. Atkinson

December 4, 2024

Martha was a dear and special friend! She was my classmate at Chester schools,through graduation! Always a blessing and fun person to have as a friend!! My prayers for her family. R.O. Atkinson

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Memorial Events
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Dec

9

Memorial service

2:00 p.m.

First Presbyterian Church

Charlotte, NC

Funeral services provided by:

Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service - Charlotte

1321 Berkeley Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204

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