Martha McClyment Shortall

Martha “Marty” McClyment Shortall

September 4, 1936 – October 22, 2026

Martha “Marty” McClyment Shortall, 90, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2026. She was born on September 4, 1936, in Queenstown, Maryland, on the Eastern Shore, to Bishop McClyment and Frances Larrimore McClyment.

Marty grew up on her family's farm, surrounded by open fields and farm animals. Alongside her older sister, Rebecca, and younger brother, David, she spent her childhood in the rural surroundings of Maryland's Eastern Shore. Those early years helped shape the independence and self-reliance that would remain defining characteristics throughout her life.

A talented and dedicated student, Marty graduated from Centreville High School in 1954. She continued her education at the Maryland Institute of Art, graduating with honors. Following college, she met and married Francis Shortall Jr., affectionately known as Teddy.

Marty began her professional career as an art teacher in the Baltimore City public schools, sharing her artistic talents and appreciation for learning with her students. She later stepped away from teaching to raise her two daughters, Kelly Bishop Shortall and Kate Stevens Shortall.

After her daughters were grown, Marty began a new chapter in her professional life with MCI. Her career and life's circumstances eventually took her to Texas and later to North Carolina following the death of her aunt.

While living in North Carolina, Marty undertook the remarkable challenge of renovating her aunt's home entirely on her own. Never one to shy away from hard work or a challenge, she approached the project with the same determination and resourcefulness that characterized so much of her life.

Marty was a woman of strong convictions, fierce independence, and unwavering determination. She was straightforward, spoke her mind, and rarely saw a reason to sugarcoat the truth. She believed in doing things her own way and possessed the determination to see them through. Whether pursuing her artistic interests, building her career, or taking on life's challenges, Marty remained true to herself.

Creativity was an important part of Marty's life. A gifted artist, she enjoyed drawing, painting, and photography. She also found pleasure in baking and became especially known for her delicious chocolate chip cookies, a favorite among family and friends and a cherished memory for those who enjoyed them.

Marty had a special place in her heart for animals. Throughout her life, she lovingly cared for her dogs and cats, providing them with devoted companionship. Her beloved dog Willie held a particularly special place in her heart, and her family takes comfort in imagining them reunited. Her cherished Roxie remains behind, a reminder of the affection and care Marty gave to the animals she loved.

Later in life, Marty moved to Jefferson City, Missouri, to be closer to family. She eventually returned to Maryland, coming full circle to the state where her story began.

Marty is survived by her daughter, Kate Stevens Wood (Ted) of Jefferson City, Missouri; her grandchildren, Kira Butler of Mechanicsville, Maryland, and Nathan Wood and Nicholas Wood of Jefferson City, Missouri; and her great-grandchildren, Blake Butler and Lillian Butler of Mechanicsville, Maryland.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frances Larrimore McClyment and Bishop McClyment; her former husband, Francis Shortall Jr. (Teddy); her daughter, Kelly Bishop Christman; her sister, Rebecca McClyment Eason; and her grandson, Noah Wood.

Marty's 90 years were marked by artistic talent, educational achievement, professional accomplishments, and a remarkable sense of independence. From her childhood on a Maryland farm to the many places she called home, she built a life filled with experiences, challenges, and lasting memories.

She will be remembered for her creativity, her famous chocolate chip cookies, her love of animals, and the independent spirit that guided her throughout her life. Marty was a woman who knew her own mind, lived life on her own terms, and remained true to herself.

Those who knew her will remember her for exactly who she was — unmistakably Marty.

Services will be held privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Mary's County Animal Services in honor of Marty's lifelong love of animals. For donation information, please contact https://www.aroostmarys.org/give.