Mary Jeter Hurt Sorrells

Mrs. Mary Jeter Hurt Sorrells, the devoted daughter, wife, mother, and grandmother known simply as Jeter, passed away peacefully at her home in Blairsville, Georgia on Monday, June 10, 2024.

Jeter was the daughter of General Shoe Company sales executive James L. Hurt, and mid-century fashion model Dorothy "Dot" Ammons Hurt. She was born on February 24, 1947, in Jackson, Tennessee where her grandfather and namesake was president of Union University. The family soon uprooted and moved to Atlanta, Georgia, more specifically in and around the Buckhead area.

As a young girl, she followed in her mother's footsteps in being a local fashion model for department stores, most notably Rich's. She appeared in holiday ads and mother/daughter features for Sunday newspapers, as well as runway shows for girls' clothing.

During her youth, Jeter spent time in her mother's hometown of Hohenwald, Tennessee where she developed close and lasting friendships. And, as Jeter often said, she "grew up" in the Second Ponce de Leon Baptist church; there she developed lifelong relationships with a group who could be viewed only as her "sisters". Her later years were spent in Blairsville, where she enjoyed both new found friends and scenic mountain views.

In Atlanta, Jeter attended R.L. Hope and Sarah Smith elementary schools, as well as Dykes High School. Jeter went on to attend the University of Georgia where she joined the Chi Omega sorority and received her degree in education.

Jeter began her career as a school teacher with the Atlanta Public Schools. She later taught in Fairfax County, Virginia, and back in Atlanta with the Lovett School. Jeter eventually pursued private tutoring of elementary and junior high school students around the Dunwoody area. She was very active in her son Matthew's school field trips and church youth group, acting as a chaperon on many outings across the state.

Jeter was loved by all who met her, and they were all loved in return. Whether visiting a doctor's office, having her car serviced, or conducting business on the phone, she inevitably would learn everyone's personal history. She gave the phrase "people person" a whole new and greatly expanded meaning. She will be missed by many.

Jeter is survived by her husband A. Terry (A.T.) Sorrells (who also attended Sara Smith and Dykes High School), son Matthew Wooddy (Kristine), stepdaughter Stacey Frizzell (Brandon), stepson Eric Sorrells (Clara) and by her much-loved grandchildren Grayson and Stellan Sorrells. She also is survived by various cousins, nephews, and nieces.

Cochran-McDaniel Funeral Home has handled arrangements and served the family during this difficult time. Those who wish may sign the guest registrar at www.cochranmcdaniel.com.

 In lieu of flowers, the family requests that anyone wishing to make a contribution consider Samaritan's Purse or Isaiah 1:17 House.

 At a later date, the family will honor Jeter at a private graveside service. As per Jeter's wishes, no other services are planned.