Mary Fortson Darby

‘From the Heart’ Valentine benefit set for Feb. 11 in memory of Mary Fortson Darby



The Wills Memorial Hospital Foundation and the WashingtonWilkes Humane Shelter Association, two local non-profit organizations, are co-sponsoring a Valentine benefit, “From the Heart,” on February 11, 2006, from 6-9 p.m. at the Washington-Wilkes Country Club honoring the memory of Mary Fortson Darby.

Mrs. Darby was a lifetime member of the Wills Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and was a strong supporter of the humane shelter. The purpose of this event is to raise funds for improvements and enhancements at the hospital and to complete the funding for the cat facility at the shelter, according to Deborah Bennett, event coordinator.

Mary Fortson Darby was a diminutive lady with an enormous persona who freely volunteered her time and energy until age 90. Mrs. Darby was a lifelong resident of Washington, Wilkes County, Georgia, who wholeheartedly supported this community through her church work and patronage of local businesses; as a volunteer in the hospital auxiliary and a friend of the library; as a supporter of the animal shelter; and in the schools as the first elected female member of the Wilkes County Board of Education. She was also involved in many other community organizations and projects through the years. Everyone who knew her loved and respected her.

Mrs. Darby was well-known not only for her volunteerism, but also for her wisdom, wit, and practicality. She is the subject of many delightful stories, many of which she liked to tell on herself. Once while visiting Mary, one of her nieces answered the telephone. A very elderly lady speaking unclearly in a high pitched voice asked for “Mi’ Dabby.” It took a while, but eventually it was determined that the lady had found a hubcap in her yard with Mary’s name and number on the inside. Apparently, Mary, in her later years, was prone to bump curbs and loose her hubcaps, so she started writing her name and number on the inside of the new ones. When the hubcap was returned, Mary was quite amused and very happy that her idea had worked.

In recognition of Mary Fortson Darby’s lifelong civic contributions, the Wills Memorial Hospital Foundation (WMHF) and the Washington Wilkes Humane Shelter Association (WWHSA) have chosen to dedicate “From the Heart” to her memory. Entertainment will be provided by Debbie McLeod.

Individual reservations are $50 each; benefactors will receive four reservations for a $500 contribution; and sponsors will receive six reservations for a $1000 contribution. Checks should be made payable to WMHF but both organizations will equally share the proceeds. Reservations may be made at Tena’s Jewelry and Gifts or mailed to WMHF, P.O. Box 176, Washington, GA 30673.

Supporters of the hospital and/or shelter who are not interested in attending the February 11 cocktail party and buffet soiree may mail separate deductible memorials to honor Mary Darby to WMHF, P.O. Box 176, Washington, GA 30673 and/or WWHSA, P.O. Box 121, Washington, GA 30673.

Both the Wills Memorial Hospital Foundation and the WashingtonWilkes Humane Shelter Association are 501(c)3 organizations registered with the Georgia Secretary of State. Individual reservation monies, benefactor contributions, sponsorships, and donations are tax deductible for 2005 if received before the December 31 and deductible for 2006 if received after January 1. Your support will be greatly appreciated by these two much-needed and beneficial health-related organizations.
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