Martha Ellen Webber

Martha Ellen Webber, affectionately known as Ellen to her friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2023, after her long and courageous battle with cancer, in Dothan, Alabama, at the age of 66. Born on July 16, 1957, in Washington, D.C., Ellen was a beacon of light and a source of unwavering support to all who knew her.

Ellen's journey began as the cherished daughter of the late Bryant Austin Newton Jr. and Mary Sue Friar Newton. Her formative years were spent in McLean, VA, where she developed a deep-seated love for learning and the natural world. Ellen's passion for education led her to Shepherd University in West Virginia, where she obtained her Bachelor's degree in Biology Education. Her quest for knowledge didn't stop there; she later pursued and achieved a Master's degree in Biology from Troy University in Alabama.

In the mid-1970s, Ellen's family led her to Slocomb, Alabama, a state that she would come to call home for 40 years and where she would leave an indelible mark on the community. It was here that she met her high school sweetheart, John Webber, in their church youth group during high school and continued to date throughout their college years. Their love story was one for the ages, and in 1979, they solidified their bond in marriage. John and Ellen's love endured for 45 remarkable years, filled with shared memories and mutual respect, having known each other for an impressive 52 years.

Ellen's legacy is carried on through her devoted husband, John, their loving son, Brian Webber (Shay) of Huntsville, AL, and her treasured grandchildren, Parker and Nolan Webber. Each of them reflects a piece of Ellen's spirit and character, from her intellectual curiosity to her boundless creativity.

Professionally, Ellen was a respected educator who dedicated over 30 years to teaching Earth and Life Science at Houston Academy. She retired in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of inspired students and a reputation for being a nurturing and intelligent teacher who brought the wonders of the world into her classroom.

Outside of her professional life, Ellen's interests were as varied as they were passionate. She was an accomplished painter and pianist, often sharing her love for music by giving piano lessons. Her love for the Dothan Botanical Gardens was a testament to her appreciation for flowers, gardening, and the serenity of being outdoors. Ellen found joy in watching hummingbirds and was known for her creative flair, which was evident in everything she did, from her beautiful garden to her delicious culinary creations. Ellen was particularly fond of animals, serving on the board of directors for the Wiregrass Humane Society for many years as well as countless volunteer hours at the Second Chance Thrift Store.

Travel was another of Ellen's pleasures, and she seized every opportunity to explore new places and experience different cultures. Her intelligence and loving nature made her an exceptional travel companion, one who could both appreciate the beauty of the world and contribute to it with her own unique perspective. Ellen was a woman of many talents and interests, but above all, she was known for her creativity, loving nature, and intelligence. These attributes were the hallmarks of her character and the legacy she leaves behind.

As we say farewell to Martha Ellen Webber, we celebrate the extraordinary life she led and the countless lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Ellen's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with love, learning, and a profound appreciation for the natural world. Her memory will continue to inspire and influence us all for generations to come.

"God is that force within us all that gives us the miracle of life and the wonder of a soul"

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604