Harriett M. Stokes

Harriett Martin Stokes, a lifetime resident of Salem and a noted artist, passed away on May 18, 2014. She was the daughter of Robert and Harriett Martin, and sister to pre-deceased siblings Robert D. Martin, Jr., Mary M. Biays, David Terry Martin and William Martin. Preceded in death by her husband, Henry Stokes, she is survived by three sons: Clay Stokes (Janice) of Canton, Georgia, Dr. Robert D. Stokes of Paoli, Pennsylvania, and Dr. William Stokes (Mary Ellen) of Roanoke, in addition to grandchildren Kristen N. Stokes of New York, New York, and Maureen Withington (Chandler) of Victoria, Minnesota, and great grandchild, Peyton Marie Withington. Special recognition goes to Kathy Rice for her most tender, loving care of Harriett and to Judy Paxton, for a lifelong friendship full of devotion. She is also survived by many adoring nieces and nephews who will truly miss their "Hattie," as she was fondly called by family. Born June 21st, 1914, Harriett would have been 100 on the longest day of the year, the first day of summer. Harrietts greatest legacy was in the art arena, complimented by her commitment to church and community. One of the first women to graduate from Roanoke College, she held degrees from the Richmond Professional Institute and the Chicago School of Design. During World War II, she served as a teacher for all subjects in an elementary school. Roanoke City and Alleghany County School systems also benefited from her presence as an art instructor. Whether teaching art in her home, or serving as an artist-in-residence to local hospitals, Harrietts passion for art spoke volumes. A valued mentor too many, she was known for sharing her time, talent, and tireless energies to inspire and encourage budding artists of all ages. Love of community and church also colored Harrietts life. She was a lifelong member of St Pauls Episcopal Church where she served in many capacities. A very proud native of Salem, Harriett was inducted into the Salem Alumni Hall of Fame in 1997. Other recognitions include the Walter Biggs Award for Cultural Achievement, the Distinguished Alumni Award and the Perry Kendig Award (twice) from Roanoke College. Harriett's love and civic pride of the Salem community is evidenced in her many paintings that decorate the valley, be it in private collections or in corporate offices. Perhaps one of her greatest legacies was being one of the original members of the Roanoke Valley Sidewalk Art Show, where she shared space with many esteemed colleagues. Her other passion was for the grassroots one-of-a kind Salem art show, Art in the Alley. For forty years, the alley off of Lewis Avenue on the last Sunday in September was the place to be as this event quickly became a perennial favorite among art collectors. A collaborative effort of three very dynamic womenKate Woods, Peyton Klein, and Harriett StokesArt in the Alley included many local artists, be it those well-established or emerging, "undiscovered" talents to the art scene. Truly, the Roanoke Valley has been immensely gifted with Harriett Stokes' amazing talent she so gladly shared with all. Services will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2014, at 11 a.m. at St. Pauls Episcopal Church, Main Street, Salem, followed by graveside services in East Hill Cemetery. Rev. James W. Lively will officiate. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to two of her favorite causes, St. Pauls Episcopal Church, 42 E. Main St. Salem, VA 24153, and Roanoke College, 221 College Lane Salem, VA 24153 or to a charity of one's preference. An online guest book is available for family and friends by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.Service Information

Saturday, May 24th, 2014 11:00am,

St. Paul\'s Episcopal Church

42 East Main St. Salem, VA 24153

Interment Location

East Hill Cemetery

Main Street Salem, VA 24153