Martha Walston

Martha Kirkland Walston, 103, a lifelong Wilsonian, died at her home on Monday evening, February 2, 2026. Born to Robert E. Kirkland Sr. and Bessie Barnes Kirkland on July 16, 1922, Martha’s life was defined by her commitment to family, leadership, education, and the betterment of her community.

On March 22, 1947, Martha married Henry Hyman "H.H." Walston III, beginning a 70-year partnership that served as a cornerstone of their family. Martha was the matriarch of her extended family, often gathering them for celebrations. A masterful hostess, she remained vibrantly social until her final weeks, famously enjoying many parties and winning duplicate bridge tournaments as recently as a month ago.

Martha possessed a zest and curiosity for life that drew people to her from all walks of life. Her love for people was evident in her vast and varied friend groups, ranging from fellow civic leaders to young students and neighbors. She treated every interaction as an opportunity to learn something new or share a laugh. This vibrant spark kept her active until her final weeks.

Her adventurous spirit was further reflected in her love for travel, visiting over 20 countries. Whether exploring new destinations or revisiting favorite spots, she approached every journey with the same curiosity.

Her professional life was as varied as her interests. Martha shared her passion for learning as a teacher for two years at Rocky Mount High School (1943-45) and later applied her business expertise as a secretary for two years at the Export Leaf Tobacco Company.

These early roles were the foundation for a lifetime of distinguished civic engagement at both the local and state level. A proud alumna of the Women's College of the University of North Carolina (UNCG) ‘43, Martha served as the President of the UNCG Alumni Association and was later appointed to the Board of Trustees for both the UNC System and North Carolina State University. Her passion for policy was equally evident in her hometown, where she served three terms on the Wilson City Council and held the distinguished role of Mayor Pro Tem.

An avid reader, finishing several books a week until her death, she spent six years on the Wilson County Public Library Board. A dedicated lifelong member of the First United Methodist Church of Wilson, she served as trustee and as President of the United Methodist Women.

In recognition of her extraordinary service to the state, Martha was honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s highest civilian award, presented by Governor Jim Hunt. Her leadership further extended to the healthcare sector, where she served an unprecedented six terms on the North Carolina Medical Board, as the first lay person. The NC Medical Society awarded her the John Huske Anderson Award, the highest award given to laypersons by NC physicians. She was a dedicated volunteer for the Red Cross, receiving the Red Cross Hero Award for her outstanding charitable and humanitarian service.

Martha is survived by her daughters, Martha Kirkland Walston and Jean Walston Neese (Johnny); her daughter-in-law, Betty Lou Walston; and her grandchildren: Kirkland Stringer Walston, Henry Coble Neese, John Walston Neese, and Martha Walker Neese. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who were a cherished part of her large extended family. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, H.H. Walston III; her son, Henry Hyman Walston IV; and her brothers, Robert E. Kirkland Jr. and Dr. John A. Kirkland.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks to her devoted aides, Alivia Mercer and the late Ardelia Dixon Saunders, for their compassionate care and decades long friendship.

A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church,100 Green St NE, Wilson, NC 27893, on Saturday, February 7, at 2:00 p.m.

Donations in Martha's memory may be made to the First United Methodist Church Scholarship Fund, PO Box 1423, Wilson, NC 27894.

The family will host a visitation at their residence, 1225 Kenan Street NW, Wilson, on Friday, February 6, beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr. N, Wilson, 237-7171, www.wilsonmemorialservice.com