Published: July 03, 2009 09:37 pm         

Martha Ellen Bell

BRAZIL — Martha Ellen Bell, 84, of Avon and formerly of Brazil, passed away July 2, 2009 at Avon Healthcare. She was born June 15, 1925 in Clay County the daughter of John and Katherine Tilley Blower. Her parents owned and operated the Blower Candy Company.

Martha graduated from Brazil High School class of 1943 and later attended Indiana State Teachers College where she was a member of Lambda Delta Phi sorority. On Sept. 21, 1945 she married Leon H. Bell Jr. He preceded her in death on March 14, 2004.

She had previously worked at Pell’s Bargain Mart, Warren Tire and the Clay Community School Corporation. Martha was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Tri Kappa, The Home Ec Club, Order of Eastern Star, Job’s Daughters Bethel 29 and the Elk’s Women’s Auxiliary. She enjoyed reading, working crossword puzzles and spending time with her family.

Martha was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

Survivors include two sons: Leon H. Bell III and wife Mary Ann “Sam” Steinhilber of Avon and John Bell and wife Denise of Indianapolis; one aunt, Margaret Rought of Clinton and many cherished friends.

Funeral services are 11 a.m. Thursday at Lawson-Miller Chapel with the Rev. Gary Scroggins officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow services in Clearview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or the Brazil Public Library.