Charlie Mae Hurt
Charlie Mae Hurt, 93, passed away on April 23, 2024. She was born the second child to Beatrice and Charlie Scruggs in Huntsville, Al.
Charlie Mae had her early education in Huntsville, before moving to Chattanooga, where she graduated from Howard High School in 1950. She received her formal education from Alabama A&M University earning a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and a Master of Education from UTC.
Mrs. Hurt was an educator with the Chattanooga Public School System for 31 years. She also pursued additional studies at John Herron Art Institute at Ball State University, Tennessee State University, and the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. She was a two-time recipient of the “Teacher of the Year” award in 1971 and 1984 and was inducted into the African American Educators Hall of Fame. She was also a Charter Member and Past President of Phi Delta Kappa Inc., Beta Pi Chapter. Mrs. Hurt served as a community advocate for over 50 years and was a dedicated servant of her church serving in various capacities of leadership at Second Missionary Baptist.
Mrs. Hurt was known and loved by many. She taught generations of students from several schools from junior high to high school with many still speaking highly of her to this day. She was skilled in Civics and art and went on to teach a few renowned artists.
Mrs. Hurt was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Beatrice Scruggs; late husband Walter L. Hurt, Sr.; sister, Luzean Gurley; and son, Michael Elmore Hurt.
She leaves to cherish precious memories her loving son, Walter L. (Stephanie) Hurt, Jr., and loving granddaughter, Brittany (Desmond, Sr.) Lewis; three great-grandchildren, Desmond Jr., Denim, and Daxton; special mention to her bonus son, Ronnie (Linda) Benton; niece, Wanda (Ron) Thomas; best friends, Ms. Gwen Walton and Ms. Caroline Robinson; several loving cousins, a great nephew, niece, and a host of other relatives.
Public viewing will be held from 2-6 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30, at the funeral home.
An 11 a.m. funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 1, at Second Missionary Baptist Church located 2305 East Third Street, Chattanooga.
Interment will follow at Beautiful Greenwood Cemetery.
Arrangements are by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., Chattanooga, 423 622-9995.