Martha Grainger

Martha Wood Grainger, 88, died peacefully on Sunday, October 3 surrounded by her family and friends at The Cypress of Charlotte.

Martha was the daughter of Mr. And Mrs. William B. Steedman of Athens, Georgia. She attended Fairmont Junior College in Washington D.C. and the University of Georgia as a journalism major and member of the Phi Mu Sorority.

After marrying Charles Edward Wood III of Winston Salem, the couple settled in Charlotte (and Blowing Rock) to raise their three children. Martha will be remembered for her creative efforts as writer, producer, and stage manager for various shows and “extravaganzas” at the Charlotte and Blowing Rock Country Clubs. Many local talents emerged due to Martha’s casting genius during these much lauded stage musicals of the 1970’s. During these years she also organized and led European summer tours from Charlotte, and was a consultant and marketing agent for an engraving firm, designing custom invitations and personal stationary.

Her life was anchored by her love for family, community, and faith, and was enriched by her flair for music and poetry.

In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her first husband Charlie, her second husband Ike Grainger, Jr., and brother William B. Steedman Jr. of Athens, Ga.

Survivors include Charles E. Wood IV of Greenville, S.C. and wife Vicki, Rebecca W. Jones of Atlanta and husband G. Phillips, Susan W. Smithson of Southern Pines and husband Patrick “Buck”, six grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Additionally, Ike’s children, their spouses, and five grandchildren were all part of Martha’s family: Ike B. Grainger III and wife Deede, James W. Grainger and wife Kelley, and Margaret G. Hooks and husband Lonnie, all of Charlotte.

A graveside service for the family will be held on Sunday, October 10 at 1:30 p.m., followed by visitation and a celebration of her life at the Cypress of Charlotte clubhouse from 3-5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Blowing Rock Fire and Rescue, 8001 Valley Blvd. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605

Condolences can also be extended at www.HarryandBryantFuneralHome.com