Martha Caroline Clapp

Martha Caroline Whitlow Clapp, 89, of Fulton, passed away Friday, July 26, 2013, at Fulton Presbyterian Manor. She was born on Flag Day, June 14, 1924, in Fulton, and all of her life she believed the flags were flying for her. Martha was the daughter of the late William Brewer Whitlow and the late Laura Mary (Cochran) Whitlow, and she had one brother, William Cochran Whitlow. She was surrounded with love in her childhood, which she then spread to her own family when she became a wife and a mother. On June 6, 1947, Martha was united in marriage to Harvey Spaulding Clapp III, who preceded her in death on November 22, 1993. Together they raised three sons, David Whitlow Clapp, Harvey Spaulding Clapp IV (Nick), and Thomas Harrison Clapp; and one daughter, Carolyn Clapp Behrendt. Martha had 13 grandchildren and seven great- grandchildren. Martha was a wonderful homemaker, creating an atmosphere of love and loveliness. She was a great cook, known for specialties like Baked Alaska, Pig Pudding, and Prosperity Sandwiches. Martha compiled two recipe books. She entertained effortlessly and loved to host club parties and events, a highlight being the annual Caroling Party and Neighborhood Christmas Party. Entertaining was always fun for Martha, it was never a chore and her house was often filled with laughter, good conversation, and guests. Martha was a crafty lady. She taught crafts at Bible School and Girl Scout camp for years. Martha painted wood items made by Harvey; she made bead flower bouquets, and stitched together quilts for all of her grandchildren. However, her first love was needlepoint. There are countless pillows and pictures throughout the homes of family and friends. Martha graduated from Fulton High School in 1942 where she was a drum majorette. She graduated from William Woods University in 1944 and then graduated from the University of Missouri in 1946 where she was a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority. Martha was a lifelong resident of Fulton and loved being a Callawegian. When the family took trips away, she would honk the horn when returning to Callaway County and declare that "the air smells sweeter here." Martha had a full and busy life. She was a lifelong member of the First Presbyterian Church, joining in 1936. She sang soprano in the choir for 40 years and served as an elder. She belonged to PEO, Chapter DY, was an avid bridge player, and belonged to several other clubs. Martha volunteered with the Girl Scouts, the County Extension Board, and Fulton Presbyterian Manor. She filled her home with many collections, most notably political campaign buttons, eagles, George Washington memorabilia, and Wedgewood. It is hard to picture Martha without Harvey. A fitting image of Martha is from an advertisement she and Harvey made several years ago for Kingdom Days. They are sitting together on a bench, discussing the goings on in Callaway and whether or not Martha should get a new dress for the event. Memorial services will be 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 3, 2013 at First Presbyterian Church in Fulton. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. until the time of service on August 3, 2013 also at Fulton Presbyterian Church. A private interment ceremony will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church or Westminster College, c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Blvd, Fulton, MO 65251. Online condolences may be shared at www.MaupinFuneralHome.com.