Martin Broadhurst

Martin (Marty) Broadhurst completed his human journey Nov. 3, 2021, aged 89 at Berkeley Medical Center in Martinsburg WV. His gentle spirit lives on in the hearts of all those who loved him.

He was born April 28, 1932 in Washington, DC. to Estelle Martin Broadhurst and Gilbert Broadhurst. He grew up in Bethesda Md., attended Bethesda Chevy Chase High School, Montgomery College, Western Maryland College (now McDaniel College) and Penn State, where he earned his PhD in Physics. His doctoral dissertation was on how migrating birds use the earth’s electromagnetic fields to navigate.

He had a career in Physics research at the National Bureau of Standards (now National Institute of Standards and Technology). He described his work as practical physics, working on subjects such as solving the problem of the electromagnetic radiation of jungle vegetation, which impeded Army radio transmissions. He invented a polymer gel with the texture of human muscle tissue which aided in the calibration of machines to treat injuries. He won many awards for his outstanding research.

Marty was known for his wide-ranging knowledge of many subjects, his gentle, compassionate nature, and his love of corny jokes. He could intuitively fix anything. He was an expert skier, and played the harmonica by ear. He was a passionate gardener, loving rare varieties of plants and fragrant roses. He was very active in volunteering for local organizations, including the Shepherdstown Men’s Club, Good Shepherd Caregivers, and more.

Marty and his wife, Nan, moved to Shepherdstown, WV from Washington Grove, MD in 1996. In 2013 they became part of a group developing and building an intentional community in Shepherdstown, called Shepherd Village. They moved into their new home in 2018, and were surrounded and supported by their loving fellow Villagers and other friends and family, especially during the last months of Marty’s illness.

He is survived by his wife, Nan, of Shepherdstown WV, sons David (and Paula Bowen) of Silver Spring MD, and Steve (and Pam Bates) of Myrtle Beach SC, step-son Charlie Wilson (Jerrica) of Crested Butte, CO, and step-daughter Stephanie Hertzog (and Brian) of Arlington VA. Grandchildren Kyle Broadhurst and Melanie Broadhurst of Florida, and step-grandchildren Max Hertzog, Paris Wilson, Beckham Wilson, and Holland Wilson. He was preceded in death by brothers, George Perry and Jimmy Broadhurst.

There will be a Memorial Service at the Shepherdstown Presbyterian Church 2 p.m. Nov. 20, 2021. In lieu of flowers, if you wish, please send donations to Shepherdstown Shares, PO Box 1780, Shepherdstown WV 25443, or to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements made by Brown Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be offered at www.BrownFuneralHomesWV.com.