Martha Claire Fitzner, a lifelong Columbus resident, beloved teacher of 20 years, dedicated laywoman of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, loving mother, wife and friend, died Wednesday.
She was 58.
Fitzner will be remembered by students, friends and neighbors for her warmth, hospitality and unique gift to make everyone she interacted with feel special.
She was born and raised in Columbus, and after attending Mississippi State University, she returned to her alma mater, Heritage Academy, to teach first grade.
But Fitzner was much more than a teacher.
“She was an inspiration,” said Heritage Headmaster Dr. Greg Carlyle. “Every time I went into her classroom, not only did she have a smile on her face, but she was moving through the room working with every single student.”
Those students remembered and treasured their first grade teacher as they aged.
“Every time we went out to eat, a child would run up and hug her and say hello,” said Kelly Brown, a friend of 17 years.
Fitzner was known as “Aunt Marcy” to her many godchildren and was the matriarch of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church. Brown and St. Paul’s Rev. Anne Harris remember her always having a child in her lap.
“Several people have called to say how much she helped them raise their children,” Harris said.
Marilyn Fields taught with Fitzner at Heritage for 20 years. She grew up with Fitzner in Columbus and has known her since she was 3-years-old. Fields said Fitzner always maintained positivity and enthusiasm.
“Whether it was her idea or not, she was good with it and embraced it with a good attitude,” Fields said.
Fitzner will be remembered for her hospitality and her cooking. Friends said she was always the first to bring over dinner when somebody was having a tough time.
Pam Rhea, a friend of 30 years who will be presiding over Fitzner’s funeral Saturday, said her friend gave her the confidence to become a preacher.
“She was an encourager,” Rhea said. “She would help you find things in your life you didn’t even know you were looking for.
“I don’t think there was much regret in her 58 years,” Harris said. “She was joyful; she was kind; and she was loving.”
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