Martha Sue (Turpin) Morthland, 71, of Boonville, IN, passed away on Wednesday, December 28, 2016 at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, IN.

She was born July 18, 1945, at the family home near Patoka, IN.

She grew up on the farm with her beloved parents, Dick and Freida Turpin and her two sisters. “Sueky” a nickname her sisters gave her as a child, had a happy childhood riding her pony, playing in the hayloft with baby kittens, swinging across Bear Branch on the trapeze swing, building dams, and catching minnows. She loved all animals and was a champion of so many that were homeless. Martha Sue received her education at Mt. Olympus (grades 1-12), Oakland City College (BS degree), and Indiana State University (MS degree). She taught elementary school for 33 years. Like her mother, Martha Sue was a “people person” who enjoyed talking, fixing meals, and having company. Holidays were extremely important to her as she so enjoyed decorating and making her home festive for family and friends. She also loved and appreciated nature and the beautiful world God made. Her grandchildren called her “Big Mama,” and she adored them. She loved being with them and singing, dancing, playing cards/board games, building hideouts, fishing, hiking, exploring, watching movies, and eating popcorn.

She is survived by her sons, J.T. Wells of Gentryville, IN, and Andy (Jen) Wells of Mosier, OR; daughter-in-law, Heather Wells of Valparaiso, IN; grandchildren, Jacob, Emmy and Cole Wells; sisters, Malinda (George) Gilbert of Princeton, IN and Marilyn (Judson) Adamson of Hilton Head, SC; uncle, Virgil “Bud” and aunt Joan Turpin of Princeton; friend, Doug Morthland of Boonville; nieces, nephews, cousins and many special friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Charles Lewis Turpin. There will be a graveside service at a later date at Decker Cemetery near Patoka. Family and friends will be invited. Colvin Funeral Home in Princeton has been entrusted with arrangements.