Margaret A. Werth

Margaret Ann Werth, 89, of Worthington, died Saturday, April 26, 2008, in Columbus, surrounded by the family she cherished. Margaret was born in Madison, Wisconsin to Danish immigrant parents, Marin and Hans Hansen. She survived the 1918 influenza pandemic as a six-month old baby, the Great Depression, the loss of her first husband in World War II, and a bout with breast cancer. Throughout every challenge in life, she retained her great sense of humor and her empathetic, sweet spirit. Witty and unfailingly kind, with a beautiful warm smile, she spent her life investing in the lives of her family and friends. After the heartbreaking loss of her first husband, William Kelly, in World War II, the young war widow was raising her son when she met Paul Werth. He was already a successful businessman, but he was so overwhelmed by her beauty and charm that he had to ask his friends to help him secure a date with "Margie." They were married in 1948. Margaret's faith in Paul's abilities as a public relations man resulted in Paul Werth Associates, with Margaret serving as co-founder and an officer. Throughout her life, she was devoted to her children and grandchildren. She also was a gracious, funny presence in the lives of her friends and served as an inspiration to many. In 2002, The Franklin County Unit of the American Cancer Society honored the Werths by naming its new facility the Paul and Margaret Werth Community Resource Center. Preceded in death by husbands William Kelly and Paul Werth. She is survived by children, William Kelly (JoAnn), Sandra Harbrecht, and Linda Chupp; as well as grandchildren, William Kelly III, Andrew Kelly, MaryAnn Riley, Brian Smith, Adam Chupp, Julie Chupp; eight great-grandchildren, Joe and Christina Kelly, Daniel and Natalie Kelly, Marissa and Michael Riley, and Hunter and Tyler Smith; and dear friends, Vicki Gerardi, Nila Whitfield and Robin Ratchford. Calling hours will be from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Friday, May 2nd, at RUTHERFORD-CORBIN FUNERAL HOME, WORTHINGTON CHAPEL, 515 High Street, Worthington, OH 43085. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 3rd at the Worthington Presbyterian Church, 773 High Street, Worthington, OH 43085 with The Reverend Amy Avery officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The American Cancer Society, in care of The Paul and Margaret Werth Community Resource Center, 870 Michigan Ave., Columbus, OH 43215. Condolences for the family may be sent to: www.rutherfordfuneralhomes.com.