Martha Ellen Whitesell

Nov. 10, 1937 – Oct. 27, 2026

Martha Ellen Whitesell, 88, long-time resident of Hartford City, passed early Tuesday morning, at her home after a long illness.

Born in Surrey County, near Dobson, North Carolina, she was one of eight children, born to Wesley Garfield and Ticie (Marion) Norman.

She married Donnie Dee Whitesell on June 30, 1956 in Yadkinville, N.C., later making her home and raising her family in Hartford City.

She retired from 3M Company of Hartford City, after thirty-five years of employment. She enjoyed quilting and attending quilt shows with her husband, prior to his passing.

Her children she leaves behind, include her two daughters: Debra (Tony R.) Wilson and Pam Whitesell. Two sons: Donnie D. Whitesell, Jr. and Brian G. Whitesell. Her nine grandchildren: Blake, Austin, Jenny, Donnie III, Chase, Sara, Brandon, Breonna and Isaiah. Fourteen great-grandchildren: Logan, Donovan, Beckham, Audrey, Zaylee, Adalyn, Trinity, Athena, Brandon Jr., Wyatt, Joanna, Merryn, Shepherd and Matthew. Also surviving, include her sister, Judy (Dennis) Reece; four brothers: Thomas Norman, Benny Norman, Bobby Norman and Delbert (Nancy) Norman, as well as many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by two daughters: Elaine Bergman (and her husband Mike) and Terri Denise Whitesell. Two brothers: Gray Norman and Cornelius Norman; and four sisters-in-law: Wilma Norman, Frances Norman, Marie Norman and Betty Sue Norman.

Private graveside services and burial will be Friday, October 30, 2026 at the Gardens of Memory, in Muncie.

Visitation and viewing will be private, for the family.