[4] In Carrollton, Hurst's father served as the principal of a small, local school.

[4] During this time, Hurst's family lived in dormitory style housing on the school's grounds with several other teachers, including his aunt.

[7] In 1932, Hurst's father quit teaching in order to assist with the development of the Carrollton Federal Savings and Loan Association.

[4] At West Georgia College he met his future wife Nelie Wiley.

[1] In 1946, after completing his residency, Hurst was drafted into the army and was stationed at Fitzsimons General Hospital near Denver, Colorado.

[1] His tour of duty in Denver was cut short, however, as Hurst was allowed to return home following the news of an automobile accident that killed his mother-in-law and severely injured his sister-in-law.

[1] There he met Dr. Paul Dudley White, the Father of American cardiology, who became one of Hurst's most influential mentors.

[9] After completing his fellowship in Massachusetts, Hurst returned to Georgia in 1949 and briefly established a private practice in Atlanta.

[1] On July 2, 1955, Lyndon B. Johnson, then majority leader of the senate, suffered a heart attack.

[1] Hurst declined the offer to serve as White House Physician during Johnson's presidency.