Mary Futral Sharpe

Click Here to Download a free funeral planning guide.

Celebrating the life of
Mary Futral SharpeJanuary 09, 1927 - June 21, 2012

Mary Futral Sharpe, of Savannah, died June 21, 2012, at Hospice Savannah, after a long illness.

She was born in Savannah, at Telfair Hospital, on January 9, 1927, to Bertie Mae Waters Futral of Brooklet, Georgia, and Samuel F. Futral, of Jefferson County, Georgia.

Mary was an accomplished artist, who studied painting and drawing for years with Augusta Oelschig. Her home is decorated with her seascapes and coastal scenes. In the 1960s, she donated her artistic talents to the Little Theater of Savannah, designing and painting sets; she also served on Mayor Rousakis' motion picture committee, scouting locations for movies made in Savannah, and she had bit parts in several of those movies.

She was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church for more than 40 years, where she volunteered for many years, preparing food for church functions and arranging altar flowers for delivery to home-bound church members. During those same years, she was a volunteer at Candler Hospital, working in the gift shop and at the front desk. She eventually earned her 20-year pin for her service to Candler.

She liked cooking, entertaining, working in her garden, and dancing. In later years, she studied tap dancing under the tutelage of Rosalee Cotler, and joined "The Silver Streaks" senior tap-dancing group.

She was active in the Alee Temple Women's Auxiliary; Exchangettes of Savannah; and the Christian Women's Club.

She was predeceased by her parents.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, Al Sharpe of Wilmington Island; her daughter and son-in-law, Susan and Charles Whitfield of Talahi Island; four siblings, Samuel F. Futral, Jr. Virginia of Atlanta; Jane Futral Dooley of Pensacola, FL; John W. Futral Mary of Savannah; and Peggy Futral Hancock Murall of Stone Mountain; also several dozen nieces and nephews.

The family extends deep gratitude to Barbara Price, who was Mary's devoted companion for the past two years; also, to the wonderful staff at Hospice Savannah whose care and concern have meant so much during this difficult time.

Visitation: 9:45am, Monday, June 25, 2012, at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel.

Funeral service: 10:30 am, Monday, June 25, 2012, at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel, Fr. Craig O'Brien officiating.

Interment will be private.

Remembrances: St. John's Episcopal Church, 1 W. Macon St, Savannah, 31401; Hospice Savannah; or a charity of your choice.

SHARE YOUR CONDOLENCES

Submissions protected by Kanshi.

GUEST BOOK

My husband and I square danced with her and Al way back in the 50s.She was a very nice person. Al, I share your loss and God bless.

- Jane Tuten Brewer, Savannah, GA

Al, Please know that I am praying for you and your family. Please let me know if I can do anything for you. Ted

- Ted Akins, Black Creek, GA

Dear Susan - I am so sorry to learn of Mary's passing! She was a class-act in every way, including dancing! I'll never forget what a sweet and charming lady she was, and feel lucky to have known her. Please accept my sincerest condolences. I will pray for you and your family.

- Marie Cowart formerly Skutch, Savannah, GA

We are sorry to hear of Mary's death, reading her obituary,she led a very active life and strongly involved in the community. I know she will be missed. Al is my 'Buddy' and he is a strong spirited gentlemen,

- Lum M. Purvis, Pooler, GA

The world has lost a beautiful lady but the heavens have gained the sweetest saint...full of joy and energy and ready to tap dance again! All my love to Susan, Charles and Mr. Al. - Georgia Byrd

- Georgia Byrd, Savannah, GA

I am so saddened to learn of Aunt Mary's death. She was a wonderful woman and my heart reaches out to my Uncle Allison, my cousin Susan and her husband Charles. I love you all, and wish I lived closer so I could be there with you. All of the family here in California are praying for you and sending good thoughts.

- Kathy Patrick, Sacramento, CA

Dear Al and Family, Please accept my sincerest condolences for you loss.

- Jay Hall, Savannah, GA