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Martha Langley Obituary
Martha was born to John and Della Bright on January, 11th, 1926, in Cleburne, Texas.
She was a trailblazer in many ways: the first woman to receive a Masters of Business Administration from and to teach business courses at Texas Christian University. Martha worked her way through college as secretary to Ellis Sowell, Dean of the Business School.
While working at TCU, Dean Sowell introduced Martha to John Langley, then a book salesman for Prentice Hall. Martha and John were married in the TCU Chapel on August 25th, 1954.
She is preceded in death by her husband; both parents; and a sister.
Shortly after moving to Lawrence in 1970, Martha joined "Hilltop Nursery" as Financial Administrator. She invested their first $1,000 certificate of deposit which grew over 36 years and contributed to the construction of the Hilltop Child Development Center building on the KU Campus. During her time at Hilltop, Martha consistently lifted spirits and brought happiness to the lives of countless children and families.
She was involved in many university and community activities including University Women's Club, 1970 – 2017, serving as President twice and publishing the club's 100th Anniversary book. Martha was inducted into the Emily Taylor Hall of Fame in 2003. She was also a member of PEO Chapter EA, Founder of the First Tuesday Bridge Group, 1970 – Present, Founder with her husband of Informal Supper Club and Cocktail Fare and a member of Plymouth Congregational Church.
Martha is survived by two daughters, Cindy Leath Belot and Cathy Ann Cain (Matt) and two granddaughters, Katy Belot Hamilton (Barrett) and Martha Allen Belot; and countless friends.
Most of all she loved the beach, reading, playing bridge and gin rummy, Wheel of Fortune and all birds but especially bright red cardinals. She was a woman of strong character who will be remembered for her open heart and kind spirit.
Memorials may be made to the Martha Langley Families in Need Fund through Hilltop Child Development Center, 1605 Irving Hill Road, Lawrence, Kansas, 66045. Online condolences may be sent at rumsey-yost.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Martha Langley
February 2, 2017
Maurice and I extend our sorry at the loss of such a wonderful friend, we shared many good times together. Love to you Cindy and the other family members. Betsy Joy
Betty Pickerel
January 31, 2017
Martha helped me so much in her job at Hilltop when my daughter, Abbey, attended in 1987. Your family is in my prayers; I loved Martha.
Norma Guenther-Waddell
January 28, 2017
We will all miss Martha. She was a wonderful and accomplished lady. Whatever she did, she did well. We had a lot of fun with our many trips and travels, clubs, concerts, plays, shopping trips, talks, and enjoying each other's company. She will be with me always. My thoughts & love goes to the family of a wonderful lady.
Nancy Yacher
January 27, 2017
Many of us have been blessed by Martha's warmth and encouragement through University Women's Club functions, I among them. I remember her with deep affection.
Joan Reiber
January 27, 2017
Our deepest sympathy to Martha's family. Martha was a dear friend and mentor while I was at Hilltop, wise, bright, loving and so supportive during our years there together and also after retirement . We send our love to her dear family members and are sorry we will be unable to attend her Celebration. We are in TN visiting my sister June and husband Wayne whom we have not seen for a year. We will drive home next week. So much love and many hugs. Joan and Fritz
A. M.
January 26, 2017
My sympathy goes out to the family during your time of grief. May God's loving-kindness comfort you and help you through this difficult time. (Psalm 119:50,76)
Judy Heller
January 26, 2017
Martha was a gentle but strong woman who remained a source of dignified wisdom and common sense throughout her busy life. Lovely inside and out, she will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Martha.
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