Rella Mae Martin
May 9, 1936 – March 4, 2025

Rella Mae Martin passed away on March 4, 2025, at Hillcrest Nursing Home in Round Lake Beach, Illinois. She was born on May 9, 1936, in Newton Falls, Ohio, to Claire Daniel and Virginia Francis Custer.

Rella dedicated her life to caring for others, both in her personal life and through her work as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Randolph Hills Nursing Home and Bel Pre Nursing Home in Silver Spring, Maryland. She lived in several states throughout her life, including Ohio, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Illinois, but spent the majority of her years in Wheaton, Maryland.

She was known for her spirited personality and kind heart. Rella had a gift for making people laugh and always found joy in life’s simple moments. She loved cooking—especially making the best fudge anyone had ever tasted—going to garage sales, traveling, and cherishing time with family and friends. Her presence left a lasting impression on everyone she met, particularly her grandchildren.

Rella is survived by her daughters, Patricia (Jim) and Teresa (Michael); six grandchildren: Joseph, Christine, Travis, Dustin (Kristal), Amber, and Samantha (Creg); and two great-grandchildren, Brayden and Romily. She was predeceased by her husband, William Henry Martin; six sisters: Virginia, Almeta, Jeanette, Carol, Barbara, and Pam; and three brothers: Thomas, Lewis, and Gerald.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and medical staff at Hillcrest Nursing Home for their compassionate care, especially her favorite caregiver, Drew.

Rella was the matriarch of her family and the last of her generation—a devoted caretaker whose warmth, love, humor, and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Rest in peace, Rella Mae.