Martha Joyce Emmons, 88, passed away Tuesday at Ketcham Memorial Nursing Center in Odon.
She was born on Aug. 1, 1927, to Oliver and Mary (Highsmith) Summitt. Martha graduated from Elnora High School, where she met the love of her life, George Henry Emmons. They married April 5, 1942, and were blessed with 72 years of marriage before his death on May 2, 2015. The couple had three daughters, twins Linda Joyce, Brenda Jane and Lori J.
In her early years, Martha worked locally in the canning factory, restaurants and newspapers. She was active in the Elnora Christian Church, Daviess County Fair and school functions. She was a past president of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. She operated a book/snack shop in Linton near the schoolhouse. She was loved by many students there and was known as “the Candy Lady.” Martha had a generous heart and was involved in many charitable events to help those in need.
She had a special fondness for nostalgia and collected memorabilia for over seven decades of her favorite movie stars. She was a wonderful cook, enjoyed her many pets and raising African violets.
Martha was preceded in death by her parents; her husband George; her daughter Linda; two sons-in law, Jackie C. Wall and David J. Shake; and one brother, Phillip Summitt.
Surviving are her two daughters, Brenda J. Walls of Elnora and Lori J. Shake of Princeton; one brother, Paul (Gazella) Summitt of Vincennes; two sisters, Carolyn (Jim) Behle of West Hill, California, and Betty Lou Gregory of Santa Monica, California; 10 grandchildren and numerous great and great-great grandchildren.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Elnora Christian Church, with Rev. Richard Smith officiating. Visitation will be Monday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the church. Burial will be in the Fairview Cemetery, Elnora. Poindexter-McClure Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.