Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Schoedinger Worthington

6699 North High Street

Worthington, Ohio

Martha Shevlin Obituary

SHEVLIN Martha Ann Shevlin passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her children on March 11, 2011, following a short battle with cancer. Martha was born in New Lexington, Ohio on June 10, 1927, one of eight children of Ralph and Marguerite (Stalter) Metzger. The bustling family moved for a period to Wellston Ohio, and later to Columbus, where Martha graduated from North High School in 1945 and began work at the Columbus branch of the Internal Revenue Service. Martha married Don Murphy, living in Beechwold with their four children before Don's untimely passing of cancer. Martha eventually remarried, and with Mike Shevlin had five more children, raising all in a vibrant, happy household near the park in Forest Park, a neighborhood where among her neighbors she counted her three sisters and their families. Upon Mike's passing from emphysema in 1993, Martha moved back to Beechwold to a quiet tree-filled street and has spent the past years enjoying her growing family, wonderful friends, yard and garden, cooking, playing piano, refinishing furniture (pieces which were given away or frequently rearranged in her house), attending church, organizing garage sales, playing euchre and scrabble, sewing, watching a bit of television (one soap opera, Dancing-With-The-Stars, and every Ohio State game), and taking advantage of the freedom to travel freely and satisfy her life-long curiosity of the world and of meeting new people; having several children living overseas and some dear friends who enjoyed travel helped facilitate this. Martha's life was a happy one, and her positive attitude and joy touched many. Her homes were happy places which were always open and welcoming, and where not only her children, but the children of friends and even acquaintances were happy to spend time and seek her wisdom. Martha leaves behind eight happy children, the Murphy's, Kevin, Martin, Maureen, and Eileen, and the Shevlin's, Ellen, Tom, Bob, and Michelle; various in-laws; and significant persons, Vicki Nichols, Bill O'Dwyer, Bryon Yourtee, Scott Dvorak, Wilbert Das, Amy Aspengren; and seven grandchildren, Keegan and Erin Murphy, James and Monica O'Dwyer, Kelsey, Chloe, and Shane Shevlin; with a new grandchild due to arrive in April, and two sisters, Rosemary Keifer and Margie White. Martha lost one son John, to a heart attack in 2001, and her faith in God gave her the certainty that she could expect a joyful reunion with him and other loved ones upon her arrival in heaven, including siblings Phil, Paul, Ralph, Gene and Madeline. Family will receive friends and relatives on Tuesday, March 15, 2011 from 2-4 p.m., and from 6-8 p.m. at SCHOEDINGER WORTHINGTON CHAPEL, 6699 N. High St, Worthington. On Wednesday, March 16, 2011 a mass will be held at Our Lady of Peace church at Dominion and High St. at 10 a.m., with coffee and light refreshments to follow. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society or Mount Carmel Hospice. Visit www.schoedinger.com to share a favorite memory of Martha.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Mar. 12 to Mar. 14, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Martha Shevlin

Not sure what to say?





Beth Nisonger

May 4, 2011

My deepest sympathies to the Murphy/Shevlin family. Martha was one of the most wonderful people I have ever know. Her energy and enthusiasm were infectious to all who came in contact with her. Martha knew no stranger and I know that she lived life to the fullest! She will be greatly missed by her children and grandchildren, and the many friends I know that she had.

Piero Zolin

March 24, 2011

I would like to say that before last couple of weeks, fortunately, my time spent with the MARTHA'S family was only about great time, happy time, peaceful time..in every place I have been with them, from Columbus to North Carolina to Italy etc, and Martha has always been the bearer of this happiness, joy and positive power.
Martha is no more with her family now, but I think and I felt it during my short stay in town that she is still leading somehow, from somewhere her family to keep going on with the same spirit, the same will to live and way to enjoy every single moment passed together

Martha sei SPECIALE, great job.

Jennifer Dvorak

March 16, 2011

Such a tiny little woman made an enormous impact on so many people's lives. That is truly a beautiful thing. It was an honor and a privilege to have known Martha even for the short time that I did. She exuded such warmth, joy and wonderful spirit. When our families met, we meshed immediately. I credit Martha for building such a wonderfully close knit and welcoming family unit and am inspired to create the same spirit and kindheartedness in my own family. I want to be like Martha when I grow up! :-) This is a time to celebrate the wonderful woman that Martha was. Every time I see her photo, it makes me smile. How proud and thankful you must be as a family to have had such a wonderful woman in your life. My thoughts are with you all. Thank you for letting us be a part of this celebration.

March 16, 2011

Kevin introduced me to Martha several years ago, & I cannot recall ever meeting a warmer, sweeter woman. She will be sorely missed by all who's lives she touched. Kym Wells

March 16, 2011

Martha was a fun lady and she had a fun family. I always enjoyed talking with martha. She loved to travel and i had the pleasure of going on a cruise with martha. I will always rememeber that fun time. Im so glad i got to talk to martha at thanksgiving. May she have no worries up there in heaven.
Melanie Jerome

March 16, 2011

We did not know Martha in person, but knowing Bill and his family, we are convinced that she was a very warm and generous person, who was loved by many people.

In this difficult moment our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends.





From all Bill's colleagues at Chiyoda Europa (Belgium, Genk)

Jodi Hennen

March 15, 2011

Wow...I was so saddened to hear of Martha's passing. I grew up with all the Murphy/Shevlin clan, and what a great childhood we all had!!! Those days were the days of "community" in the truest sense of the word. We lived in Forest Park, where the entire Metzger family lived, and possibly "reigned". (haha) Martha, Madeline and Margie were great influences in my brothers and my life. I felt so "at home" in each and every one of their homes. We were inseperable, as kids. Putting on endless skits and plays in the Powers' garage. "Building" tents/forts to sleep out in....the "cities" we built with such detail in our backyard sandbox (6 TONS of sand. actually) with George's "extra" bricks...I think that's where Martin (still not used to'Marty') and I developed our love of drafting and architecture...and, when we got bored with the whole thing we would flood the sandbox and wreak havoc on the citizens who 'lived' there.
I hadn't seen Martha for decades when Martin came home for his 50th birthday at Talita's. The reception Martha gave me made feel as if we'd seen each other daily. And, then, I was priviledged to spend New Year's Eve with whole family...Martha told me how they 'made' her quit smoking,and, jokingly, commented that she was putting on weight...such a great sense of humor and so down-to-earth!
I promised her I would call her, because we lived so close...and, the way life happens, I never 'got around to it'.....that's my biggest regret...I lost my mom 12 years ago, but for awhile I felt like I had one, in Martha. Rest in peace, beautiful lady. You'll be missed....
Love all of you guys!!!
Jodi

Chris Althouse

March 15, 2011

Mo, Ellen, Michelle and rest of family: Do you remember the days you would play tennis at Woodward Park--so much laughter and fun--oh and here comes michelle in her fish hat on her skateboard with her tennis racket in her hand. And then I would see your Mom come strolling by to watch all of you. We would sit and chat on the bench and to my delight I see why she has such a loving, close family--not easy to do with all your crazy personalities!! I am sad for all of you--as I know your Mom was the nucleus of the family but what a great life--what great trips you all went on and the best of memories!! Please Know you are all in my thoughts and big hugs to you all. Sincerely, Chris and Jeff Althouse

Thomas Metzger

March 15, 2011

Dear cousins and family, I am so sorry to hear of Aunt Martha's death. What a great lady. I will never forget the trip she made to Mississippi to visit Dad (Phil) Barb and I and family were living there at the time. She traveled down with her sisters. I can't remember when she didn't have a smile and a great laugh. I understand that she was sick at Christmas, and she still answered our card to her. I know Phil will be happy for her to come home. He loved his siblings so. You will all be in our prayers. What a Faithful Servant to God she has been in her lifetime! If we could just follow her example. Love, Your cousin, Tom Metzger, Atlanta, GA

Zugschwert

March 15, 2011

To the Shevlin Family: We are truly sorry for the loss of your mother. Mrs. Shevlin was a good friend to our mother and we have such fond memories of their friendship. During these difficult times, hold on to the memories, take one day at a time and take care of each other. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, The Zugschwert Family

John Shevlin

March 15, 2011

Aunt Martha was the most amazing example of how to manage all of the complex elements of living Life successfully, and to subtly - and purely by example - bring out the best in the rest of us. I have been richly blessed by having known this wonderful woman. God bless you - royally - Aunt Martha, for your wonderful example of what it is to be a human being. And to my cousins, my sympathy for your loss. Martha was a living legend. And her legend lives on, and will continue to live on for generations hence. God bless you all. My thoughts and prayers, and those of Sheila and the Minnesota Shevlins are with you.

Clinton Metzger

March 14, 2011

To the Shevlin family I am sorry for your loss. Martha was my great aunt and the few times I met her I really thought what a genuinely kind person. She will be missed.

Doreen Gosha

March 14, 2011

To the Murphy and Shevlin family my deepest condolences, I have never met a more close knit family, which is a testament to the loving care of your Mom raising a wonderful family. I know you will miss her, but just look at each other and you will see her there. God Bless you all

Teresa Hulett

March 14, 2011

Aunt Martha was one of the greatest generation. I loved her and what she stood for. Now she is with her maker and those who passed before her. I am very sad to have lost touch with my Ohio Family. My prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Love, Teresa Metzger Hulett

March 13, 2011

Every encounter with Mrs. Shevlin had the same outcome: you left feeling special and privileged and important and loved. She was a fantastic listener who then interjected her brilliant and funny comments, always with brutal candor and never an ounce of spite. She was "Mother Martha" to all her children's friends, and we are so blessed to have known her. Love always,
Todd, Bobbye, Tate and Brock Skipton

Linda Byron

March 13, 2011

Mom Shevlin was a wonderful person. I am thankful that I knew such a kind and generous person. I know that her faith was always strong and her life was full. She is in a better place now. My thoughts and prayers go out to her friends and family. She will be missed. God Bless.

Patty Metzger Larrinaga

March 13, 2011

The Obituary summed it up perfect... My aunt Martha's house was my favorite home away from home as a kid. She always had a smile and great quick wit! Not to mention all of my amazing cousins. They were family. Sadly, we rarely visited after we moved to Florida. I am comforted to know that those who have gone before us celebrate her homecoming. Cousin Patty Metzger

Margo

March 13, 2011

"Martha never met a stranger. She was an excellent listener and could make conversation with most anyone. She was so inquisitive and bright. I think she delighted in finding out what makes us all tick. My life is truly enriched to have known Martha and be included as a friend of the family."

John, Heidi & Charlie Weideman

March 12, 2011

We have fond memories of your mother. Her kindness and conviction are beautifully reflected in her children whom we all love and appreciate. Your family will remain in our prayers.

Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results

Make a Donation
in Martha Shevlin's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Memorial Events
for Martha Shevlin

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Schoedinger Worthington

6699 North High Street, Worthington, OH 43085

How to support Martha's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Martha Shevlin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more