Martha A. London

Martha was born on November 30, 1921 in Rock Hill, South Carolina to Mary and George Azer. A graduate of Winthrop College, she began her journalism career in 1943 as a reporter for the Charlotte News. After starting her family, Martha left the paper but continued to work as a freelance reporter for the News and columnist for the Mecklenburg Times. Her lifelong love of politics led her to accept the position of Public Relations Director for the successful campaigns of Representative Charlie Jonas and Governor Dan Moore.

Martha loved the performing arts. She acted in several productions around Charlotte, was screen-tested for the role of Scarlett O’Hara in Gone With The Wind, and later served as Publicity Director for the Charlotte Summer Theatre and Singing Christmas Tree. She was a member of the original creative team behind the Festival in the Park. While at dinner with close friends Hope and Pat Hall, Martha coined the name “Carowinds” for the new theme park that Pat was building.

Martha’s charisma and enthusiasm made her a natural leader. She was Founding President of the Charlotte Legal Auxiliary and Charlotte Parent’s League. Martha was a brilliant duplicate bridge player, earning the status of Life Master. She maintained her reporter’s curiosity throughout her life and found every person’s story interesting. She loved fashion, and continued to dress stylishly untill the day she died.

Martha had an unshakable belief in God. She was a charter member of St. Gabriel Catholic Church. When faced with the murders of her son and daughter-in-law, Martha never wavered in her faith. Her indomitable spirit was an inspiration to all of us.

In addition to her parents and brothers, Martha was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin London, her son Doug London and her daughter-in-law Debbie London. She is survived by her daughter Lisa London, daughter and son-in-law Leslie and Steve Musgrove and her grandson Daniel London.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Cypress, Stewart Health Center and Hospice of Charlotte for the loving care that extended to the entire London family.

A service to celebrate Martha’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 24 at the Clubhouse at the Cypress of Charlotte. A reception will follow the service.

For those wishing to send memorial gifts, please consider The Relatives or The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Charlotte; both have gang prevention programs.