Martha Mae (Murray) Hutchison

Martha Mae (Murray) Hutchison, 79, widow of James “Jim” Hutchison, of Staunton and formerly of Mustoe, passed away Sunday, March 10, 2024 at Brookdale Assisted Living Facility after a short illness.

She was born May 14, 1944 in Washington, DC, a daughter of the late John Guy Murray and Margaret (Byington) Murray.

Inspired by her brothers’ actions and prompting, Martha grew up a tomboy in Great Falls, Virginia.  Following graduation from Herndon High School, she would begin her work career as a secretary with the Central Intelligence Agency. Additionally, Martha worked as an administrative assistant to three separate admirals at Keflavik Naval Station in Iceland. There in Iceland she began college classes in the evenings, and would ultimately become the first in her family to earn a college degree. Martha would go on to retire from her employment with the U.S. Navy as a chief financial officer, after more than 30 years of service.

Following retirement Martha and her husband relocated to Highland County, where they appreciated the slower pace of life and simply being together in the mountains. There she held membership with the Monterey United Methodist Church, where she served as treasurer, and was a former member of the Highland Homemakers. Her favorite activities included time spent birdwatching and working in her garden – Martha was known for her green thumb. She also loved hosting family gatherings and was well known for her culinary skills and her German chocolate cake. Above all, Martha will be remembered as a “foundation stone” within the family, working to ensure and promote tradition and togetherness; as well as always being there for her children as the constant nurturer and protector.

In addition to her parents and late husband, who passed away June 25, 2021, she was also predeceased by her son, John William Doores; and brother, Ralph L. Murray.

She is survived by her daughter, Margaret Catharine Jennings and husband, Kristian of Mustoe; stepdaughter, Anne Dessaint of Ledyard, CT; stepson, James Hutchison of Quaker Hill, CT; brothers, David Murray and wife, Mary of Harpers Ferry, WV; William Murray and wife, Sharon of Inwood, WV; James Murray of Warrenton; and sister, Alberta Nelson of Haywood.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, March 15^th, 2024 at Obaugh Funeral Home with Pastor Bobbie Jo Gardner officiating. Interment will follow in Monterey Cemetery.

Friends attending the service will act as pallbearers.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Highland County Volunteer Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 268, Monterey, Va. 24465.