Martha Frances Campbell

Martha Frances Campbell, age 95, died of age-related causes on Monday November 16, 2020, at the University of Missouri Hospital in Columbia, Mo. Martha was born on February 11, 1925 in Sikeston, Mo., the daughter of the late John W. and Effie Mae (Martin) Campbell Sr. She married Delbert Whitener and had two children, Donna and David. In the 1950's she moved to Calgary, Alberta, Canada where she was employed by the Hudson Bay Company. There she worked as an artist and copywriter, advancing to a management position in advertising, and receiving awards and commendations. She returned to the United States, settling in St. Charles, Mo., where she earned her License of Practical Nursing and founded the St. Charles Nursing Home. She worked in the healthcare field for the remainder of her career. She spent her retirement in Florida, eventually returning to Missouri to be close to family in her final years. Martha was a member of Immaculate Conception Church. She also was a card-carrying member of the Republican Party. She rehabbed a historic home in St. Charles where she loved to entertain, hosting family celebrations, holiday parties and political dinners. She loved dogs and horses and raised both in Florida. She was a lifelong learner, taking college classes throughout her adult life and learning to paint in her retirement. She produced many canvases her family now cherishes. She survived cancer and was independent and engaged until her last day. Martha was an exuberant raconteur and lived her life with zest, humor, and resilience. Alice, the only granddaughter living near Martha, took very special care of her granny. She spent countless hours shopping for her, taking her to doctor appointments, and treating her to dinners out with long conversations. Martha had Alice on speed dial, and Alice was always there for her. The family is very grateful for her loving care and compassion. The family also wishes to thank Janet Roark and Rita Norris for their care and time with Martha. She is survived by her daughter Donna (Bernard) Groner; granddaughters, Maria (Phil) Watson, Alice Groner, Jennifer Groner, Amanda (Andrew) Avenoso; and 8 great-grandchildren. Martha was preceded in death by her parents; five brothers; one sister; her son, David Whitener and his wife Marilyn, and their son David Lee. Due to Covid-19 concerns, a public funeral service is postponed and will be announced at a later date. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Dulle-Trimble Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. Those wishing to send condolences to the family may do so at the www.dulletrimble.com website.