Etta M. Martin

Etta Mae Martin, a devoted homemaker and beloved matriarch, passed away peacefully in her home on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at the age of 98. She was surrounded by her loving family during her final days, a testament to the deep bonds she built throughout her long and meaningful life. Etta was born on December 18, 1926, in White Hill, Illinois, to the late Alvin and Lillie (Steele) Annable. She spent over 30 years in the local area after moving from Portage, Indiana, where she and her husband raised their family and built a life rooted in faith and service. On December 23, 1944, in Vienna, Illinois, Etta married the love of her life, James Martin. Their marriage, which lasted 67 years until James' passing in 2011, was a model of commitment and partnership. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and love. Etta was a proud homemaker who found great joy and fulfillment in caring for her family. Her home was always a place of welcome and nourishment—whether through a warm meal, a jar of home-canned preserves, or a quiet conversation at the kitchen table. She had a passion for canning foods, not only for her own household but for others in the community. She also loved visiting orchards and roadside stands to pick fruits and vegetables, always looking for the freshest ingredients for her next creation. She was a longtime member of Orchard Drive Baptist Church in Hessville, Indiana, where she served faithfully as the church secretary for many years. Etta was also a former member of the Caldwell Elementary School community in Hessville, where her presence was a blessing to many. Etta is survived by her three daughters: Shirley (Ken) Merritt, Sandra (Bill) Casey, and Patricia "Trish" (Mark) Scheffer; 12 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; 19½ great-great-grandchildren; and one sister, Thelma Penrod. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, James Martin; one son, Jim (Roberta) Martin; three sisters; and two brothers. Graveside services will be at 1:00 EDT on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 at Grovertown Cemetery. There is no other service or visitation planned at this time. Etta Mae Martin’s life was one of quiet strength, devotion, and grace. Her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and all who were blessed to know her.

Etta M. Martin

December 18, 1926 - June 25, 2025