Martha Ann Tinsley

Martha Ann Carle Tinsley
(Shinnecock)
1937 - 2024
Martha was born and raised in Bellport, New York, to proud Shinnecock parents, Blanche M. Eleazer and Arthur V. Carle. She was a graduate of Bellport High School, Class of 1955.
Martha Ann met and married James Tinsley from Powhatan, Virginia, on March 23, 1956.
Martha Carle Tinsley, Shinnecock Matriarch, on the evening of January 12, 2024, began her journey to the Spirit World at the age of 86. Martha was lovingly welcomed into the arms of our Creator, surrounded by her ever-loving husband of almost 68 years, James Tinsley, her children, and her family members.
During her high school years, Martha Ann wasn't just a student-she was a spirited Majorette, bringing enthusiasm and energy to the sidelines. Her dedication to teamwork and uplifting others hinted at the collaborative spirit that would define her later endeavors. Martha always dreamed of being a pilot and participated in aviation training programs during high school. As a Gold-Key athlete, Martha Ann excelled in sports, including the Bellport High School Sailing Club, demonstrating not only physical prowess but also a determined spirit.
It was the influence of Martha Ann's grandfather, LeRoy Eleazer, a medicine man and Shinnecock elder, that left an indelible mark on her character. Accompanying him to the reservation often during her childhood, Martha Ann witnessed acts of service that would inspire a lifelong dedication to serving others.
As an adult, Martha was one of the earliest members of the Volunteer Bellport Ambulance Service Company, emphasizing her commitment to the well-being of her neighbors and remained a life member.
As a mother, she raised five children, embodying strength, resilience, and a deep sense of family and commitment to their Shinnecock culture.
Beyond her community service, Martha Ann embraced entrepreneurship as a business partner and asset for Tinsley's Auto Painting for 55 years. Martha served on countless committees, including the Village of Bellport Planning Board, the Christ Church Altar Guild, Bellport Rotary Club, and many Shinnecock community causes.
In addition to her husband James, Martha is survived by her children Michele Tinsley Leonard (Ronald Leonard), James Tinsley, Jr., Janine Tinsley Roe, Martha Ann Tinsley Hannan (Anthony Hannan), and Meredith Tinsley; nephew Leonard Cuffee II; grandchildren Paul Leonard (Patricia Leonard), Courtney M. Leonard Hyde (Frank Hyde), Dr. Kelsey Leonard (Damien Shawanda), Miles Roe, Austin Roe (Aislinn Roe), Charlotte Roe, William Hannan, Phoebe Hannan Burnham (John Burnham), Paige Hannan; great-grandchildren Néepa Wotáhomon Hyde, Auryn Roe, Sebastian Leonard, and Piyô-Pataqahak Burnham; and brothers Douglas and LeRoy Carle, all of Bellport, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and family members.
As we honor Martha Ann Carle Tinsley, we celebrate a life well-lived-a life marked by service, advocacy, and a profound love for Shinnecock. Her legacy will endure in the hearts of those she touched, and her impact on Bellport Village, the Shinnecock Nation, and beyond will be remembered with gratitude and admiration.