Mary Martha Klein

affectionately known as Marty, who suddenly, but peacefully departed this world on 3

March 2024 in Alpharetta, Georgia at the age of 93. Born on 22 February 1931 in

Cincinnati, Ohio, Mary was the youngest member of the Hurst family, preceded in

death by her parents, Leslie and Lillian Hurst, and siblings: Jack Hurst, Jean McDowell,

Doris Waddell, Ralph Hurst, Chester Hurst, Glen Hurst, and Cliff Hurst.

Mary’s roots were firmly planted in the nurturing Hurst household in Ashland, Ohio. Her

father, Leslie, employed by a printing company, and her mother, Lillian, a devoted

mother, cultivated a home reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting—a place where

Christian Values, Family and Community, Hard Work and Determination, and Patriotism

thrived. During Christmas, it was a common tradition for the Hurst family to gather

around the piano in the living room and sing festive songs.

While all the siblings excelled in athletics, intelligence, and talent, Mary stood out by

achieving greatness in sports. At Ashland High School, she was voted the Number One

female athlete across all grades, earning numerous medals in Track & Field, and

Softball, alongside recognition for academic excellence. It’s no wonder she embraced

Ohio State University football with unwavering dedication. While watching a game,

everyone in the room dared not say a word.

Following high school, Mary pursued her education at Kent State University, where she

met and later married the handsome George F Klein from Euclid, Ohio. Their seven-decade

journey included six children, fourteen grandchildren, and eighteen great-grandchildren.

George rose to the top as President and CEO of an international

consumer packaging company. Mary, more than just a mom, served as his trusted

advisor and inspiration.

Over many years together a tapestry of joyous life events unfolded, including enduring

friendships, weddings, Hilton Head vacations, and a multitude of family celebrations.

While George provided the financial support, Mary, as the family matriarch, was the

glue that bound everyone together. The story is a testament to their enduring

partnership, marked by love, collaboration, and the profound impact of a steadfast

companion in shaping a purposeful and fulfilling life.

In her sunset years, Mary cherished precious moments with family members, offering

advice, love, humor, and unwavering support with a calm and loving demeanor. When

grandma spoke, everyone listened!

At Village Park in Alpharetta, GA, where Mary and George resided for five years, Mary

found joy in playing bridge and sharing meals with her friends. Within the confines of

her cottage, she dedicated many days to reading her Bible and quietly reflecting on

life.

Even though Mary faced a lifelong battle with Rheumatoid Arthritis, she harbored no

resentment towards God. Remarkably, she never complained about her physical

ailments, refrained from speaking ill of others, and never resorted to using profanity.

Her exemplary life is marked by Courage, Empathy, Honesty, Integrity, Optimism, and

Resilience.

Following George's passing on 6 June 2023, due to Parkinson's, Mary embraced the

freedom to travel across the country, visiting sons Ted in Davis, CA, Tim in Orlando, FL,

and daughter Mary in Minneapolis, MN. Grandma’s Skylight Frame is still filled with

cherished memories from Carmel, Walt Disney World, and the snowy landscapes of

Minnesota.

Despite the fulfillment brought by her daily life, the void left by George's absence

lingered. The couple had been pillars in the Klein family for decades, earning immense

respect, love, and admiration from every family member.

On March 3, 2024, the torch passed to their six children (Ralph, Ted, Tim, Tom, Mary,

and Judi), who now bear the responsibility of exemplifying qualities such as Faith,

Humility, Kindness, and Excellence. Each carry within them the enduring legacy of Mary

and George, ensuring that their values will persist for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, as Mary had a deep appreciation for music and the arts, contributions

to the Winston-Salem Theatre Alliance would be greatly appreciated: 650 W Sixth St.,

Winston-Salem, NC 27101, Phone: 336.508.1312.

Mary Martha Klein, an extraordinary servant of Christ, dedicated to family, extends her

heartfelt thanks to all who loved and nourished her soul. We choose to believe that she

and our dad are eternally alive, continuing the remarkable work they began with us.