Kenneth Poe Funeral Services

December 2, 2024 

Martha Woods Mallory

August 31, 1940 – December 2, 2024

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 3^rd 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.