Marta Gail Nelson

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Marta Gail Nelson who died peacefully on April 10th, 2024 at Kobacker House in Columbus, Ohio after a brave battle with metastatic cancer. She was loved and surrounded by her children at the time of her passing, and spent the preceding hours in the company of her children and her loving sisters. Marta was 72 years old.

Born in Ashland, Kentucky on August 2, 1951, Marta was a beacon of creativity and kindness. She was an artist and former art gallery owner (“Marta’s Art”) which became a cherished spot in Fort Mill, South Carolina. Through her work, she not only showcased her talents but supported and celebrated the creativity of others, making a lasting impact on the local art communities wherever she lived. She hosted art shows, was a photographer and traveler in her younger years, and helped others see the beauty in the world around them.

Marta was a friend to everyone she met, and she often made lifelong friends in a single conversation. Marta’s warmth radiated to all those around her; it just wasn’t possible to be with her and not admire her spirit and sense of humor. A loving mother and grandmother, sister, cherished friend, neighbor, and mentor, she approached everyone she met with a smile and kindness that could light up a conversation. Her interactions were filled with laughter, honesty, grace, humility and acceptance. She was an open ear to anyone in need of comfort or company. Above all else, she offered unconditional love... always.

Her positivity and compassionate nature touched many lives. Marta was a true friend and a source of unwavering support and inspiration. She thrived in the joy of everyday life. She was a ray of sunshine to all who knew her, as well as to all those she would encounter. To her family, she was always present in all the right ways. She was an angel, devoting herself to improving the lives of others.

She is survived by her children, Jeremy (Julia) Riga and Vanessa (Justin) Young; and her “daughter in heart”, Colleen (Andrew Wildman) Casey, along with her sisters, Sharon Nutt, Elizabeth Hunter, Jimmie Nelson, as well as cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. Marta was preceded in death by her mother, Janet Taylor, her father, James Nelson, and her sister, Karen Nelson-Curry.

Among those who will miss Marta are her adored grandchildren, Emily Riga and Bodhi Young, who brought immense joy and pride to her life. Marta cherished every moment spent with Emily and Bodhi, from quiet evenings painting and drawing to lively outings filled with laughter and discovery. Her legacy of creativity, kindness, and boundless love lives vibrantly on through them. Her role as a grandmother was one of her most treasured, and the deep bonds she formed with Emily and Bodhi will remain an invaluable gift to them as they grow.

There are no words for the immense loss and void we feel, as Marta brought such sparkle and overflowing love to each new day. To Marta, love and family and the memories made along the way was what she valued most in her life. Marta’s motto was a quote from Tiny Buddha’s Terri St. Cloud: “And if, when it is all over, I’m asked what I did with my life I want to be able to say I offered love.”

An open house, celebration of her life, and display of her artwork will be held at Schoedinger in Dublin, OH on April 20, 2024 from 2-4pm. Immediate family may arrive at 1:00pm.

Marta’s legacy of love, art, and human kindness will continue to inspire and guide us. Her memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Memorial contributions may be made to OhioHealth’s Hospice Care Program at Kobacker House who provided care and support during the most difficult of days.