Mary “Kitty” Chambers Crump: 100 years strong
Numerous world events in 1924 were impacting the United States of America–the Spanish flu pandemic, rebuilding from World War 1, the roaring twenties, and the Harlem Renaissance. It was a time that produced world-changing events and leaders….including Mary Chambers Crump.
On August 1, 1924, she was born in the small town of Lewisburg, WV, the fifth of six children. Mary’s brother, Buddy, gave her the nickname “Kitty” because when she cried she sounded like a kitten. To this day, friends and family call her by that nickname.
“Kitty” graduated from Bolling School and Garnett High School and attended Virginia State University. She worked at The Greenbrier Hotel and owned her own beauty shop. She is a lifelong member of John Wesley United Methodist Church in Lewisburg.
She married Charles “Sack” Crump on February 1, 1958, on a cold and snowy day. They have weathered the storms of life together for 67 years and now live in Charleston, WV. While they never had children of their own, they have loved and helped rear many children. Mary’s niece, Vickie, is one example. Vickie played the piano for over 50 years at John Wesley UMC and she and Kitty were always together in the community. The Crumps were also influential in the lives of Rev. Sharletta Green and Christopher Harris. Family means everything to her. Her biological kin are certainly at the top of her list–Patricia Hopkins, Vickie Roane, Linda Callahan, & Vincent Roane–but so are many more in the community.
Fun facts
Mary is known as Ms. Kitty, Aunt Kitty, and Granny Kitty.
Favorite color: purple
Favorite flower: carnation
Favorite TV show: Gunsmoke
Favorite genre: science fiction
Favorite song: More Than Wonderful (a song she often sang with Mrs. Edith Seams)
Favorite Bible passage: Micah 6:6-8
She is a wonderful cook, known for her caramel cakes, baked macaroni & cheese, and Grinch Punch (which has been served as many choir Christmas parties).
Once during childhood, Kitty was outside playing and told several children she was having a party. A couple hours later, the children showed up with gifts and dressed for a party. She had to use her savings to buy cookies and punch to feed her guests.
Ms. Kitty loves her church and its music, so deeply rooted in the Christian faith. She celebrates 100 years of living and loving life, family, and friends.
We are proud to name her the certified Real West Virginia of the Week for her lifetime of service. We love you, Ms. Kitty! Happy 100th birthday!
If you want to nominate someone for a future week, please email us at news@therealwv.com.
