Nellie Elizabeth Martin
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Nellie E. Martin, age 72, of Columbus, Ohio entered the gates of heaven on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, while in the care of Community Hospice’s Kobacker House.
Born on February 7, 1951, in Springfield, Ohio, Nellie was the daughter of the late Harry Smith and Marjorie Riffey. Neither of her parents were able to care for her, so Nellie’s childhood was spent in the foster care system. Her courageous life story of redemption began when the local “church bus” gathered her on Sundays where she felt God’s love through her teacher. “I am chosen.” John 15:19
Nellie was highly educated, extremely intelligent, and possessed a strong work ethic. “I am strong in His power.” Eph. 6:10. Despite the odds, she earned her Bachelor of Arts at Anderson College and her Master of Social Work at the Ohio State University. She met the love of her life, Doug Martin, at Anderson and were married for 13 years before he passed away unexpectedly. “He bears my pain.” Isaiah 53:4
Nellie bravely persevered through her heartache facing financial struggle, violence, illness, and disappointment by leaning on Jesus through it all. “He turns my hardship to glory.” 2 Cor. 4:17
Nellie was passionate about helping and serving others. Whether she was volunteering at Rock City Church or talking to people at the grocery store, her desire was to be a light to the world around her. “I will pass on an inheritance.” 1 Chronicles 28:8
She is survived by all her beloved friends and church small group families whom she relentlessly prayed through many battles and in turn enthusiastically celebrated with them on many mountaintops. “He gives me eternal pleasures at His right hand.” Psalms 16:11.
Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.