A native Atlantan, Mrs. Martha Seals was born to Ruth Anderson and Clement Howell Chitty, members of the First Baptist Church of Atlanta, on August 18, 1917. She attended a private girl’s grammar school on Ponce de Leon Avenue, not far from their home, where she was recognized as an outstanding student. While there she also studied ballet winning accolades for her performances. A reversal of family fortunes forced her and her mother to return to the home of her maternal grandparents near Milledgeville, Georgia. Continuing her academic achievements, she graduated as President of her high school class. After a very brief courtship, Martha married Rupert Hartwell Seals and they enjoyed a 35-year love affair. She was a member of the DAR. After retirement from the CDC, she became a caretaker for the elderly, once again expressing the compassion and generosity that have been hallmarks of her life force. She will be greatly missed. Martha is survived by a daughter, Marian Seals Gilbert, a granddaughter, Miriam Craig Rogers, and two great grandchildren. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, May 25, 2010 at 2:30 P.M. at Floral Hills Memory Gardens with Dr. Harvey West officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:30 P.M. Monday at A. S. Turner & Sons.
