Rose Martha Shelby

Fishers, Indiana – Rose Martha Shelby, 92, passed away peacefully after being comforted by her family and friends on August 4, 2025.

Rose was born on March 30, 1933, to parents Thomas & Ora Heath in Indianapolis, Indiana. She attended Shortridge High School. There, she met the love of her life, Melvin Shelby and they were married shortly after in 1950. They celebrated 49 years of marriage before his untimely passing in 1999.

Rose was born with a green thumb, passed onto her by her parents, even helping on her brother Cecil's farm in her younger years. This grew into a deep passion for flowers and gardening, passing this passion to her daughter Nancy Elaine who became a florist. Rose’s garden was famous among her family and friends for its beauty.

When not in her garden, Rose loved to craft. When Michaels first opened, she found the joy of creating custom wreaths and pillows for her loved ones.

In addition to her parents, Rose is preceded in death by her loving husband Melvin and beloved daughter Nancy Elaine Bell.

She is survived by sons Steve Shelby (Carolyn) and Jeffy Shelby (Carol) and grandson Bradley Carlson (Jennifer).

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Flanner Buchanan – Memorial Park Cemetery (9350 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46229) from 12 pm to 2 pm. Funeral services will follow at 2 pm with burial taking place after the service at Memorial Park Cemetery.