Martha Abbott

LOUISVILLE - Martha Eller Abbott, passed away peacefully on February 29, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Asheville, NC on June 30, 1931, she was the only child of Deane Hill Eller and Susan Moore Eller. After moving to Louisville, her parents built a house next door to Lakeside Swim Club, where Martha was a member of the synchronized swimming team. She continued her membership most of her life. Martha was a graduate of J. M. Atherton Girls High School and the University of Louisville where she was a member of Pi Beta Phi Sorority. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish.

She was a housewife until her early forties. At that time, became employed by International Life Insurance and, later, Aetna Life and Casualty as a claims liaison for the Kentucky Retired Teachers until her retirement. Martha, a lover of the arts, supported the Louisville Orchestra, Louisville Ballet, Kentucky Opera and many other choral groups. She loved to travel, play bridge, the Highlands, the Louisville Cardinals, the library, her family, friends, and dogs, especially poodles. She was a wonderful cook. No one could duplicate her recipes, especially her recipe for Party Mix, because she always substituted ingredients.

St. Paul United Methodist Church was the bedrock of Martha’s faith where she was a member for over 80 years. During this time she enjoyed being a member of the Motet Singers and Chancel Choir. She also volunteered in the church office and on other committees.

After selling her home of 50 years, Martha moved to Miralea, Masonic Homes. She loved Miralea, the employees, and the many friendships she made over the last eight years. Her children are grateful for the love and support she received at Miralea.

Martha is survived by her five children, Ann Lyons (Keith), Susan Abbott, Leslie V. Abbott III, Lyle Abbott (Tammy), and Alice Abbott- Moore (Jim). She is also survived by her five grandchildren, Sara Nelson (Shane), Clayton Lyons (Rachel), Leslie V. Abbott IV, Laurie Abbott, William Abbott and her four great-grandchildren, Thomas Nelson, Cynthia Nelson, Nina Lyons, and George Lyons. Sassy, Martha’s beloved poodle, who her children believed was her favorite child, preceded her in death.

Martha, Mommy, Mother, Mopsy was so loved by her children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren and is already deeply missed. All are grateful for the many gifts she instilled in them.

Visitation will be held on March 7 from 10:00 am at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 2000 Douglass Blvd. A service will begin at 11:00 am followed by a private burial.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Kentucky Educational Television (KET) Commonwealth Fund, 600 Cooper Dr. Lexington, KY 40502 or to St. Paul United Methodist Church -Mission Outreach Fund, 2000 Douglass Blvd, Louisville, KY 40205.