Ethel Mae Masters

Ethel Mae Masters, 77, of New Philadelphia, passed away peacefully in her home on July 25, 2025, with her husband, daughter and son by her side, following a period of declining health.

Ethel was the daughter of the late Samuel Milton and Julia Mae (Everhart) Stull and a graduate of the former Indian Valley North High School, where she laid the foundation for a life filled with creativity and purpose.

Known for her unwavering spirit and deep compassion, Ethel dedicated a significant part of her life to being a caregiver, a role that highlighted her nurturing nature and commitment to the well-being of her family and others. Her kindness and empathy touched the lives of many, and she will be remembered as someone who always put others first.

Ethel had a variety of interests that brought her joy. She loved to sew and paint, expressing her artistic side through each crafted piece. In recent years, she discovered a passion for working on Diamond Art projects with her husband and daughters, which filled her days with colorful creation. She also loved watching the many cardinals, humming birds, orioles and woodpeckers that frequently visited her deck throughout the day.

One of Ethel's greatest joys was traveling throughout the United States, creating treasured memories with her husband and children as they explored new places together. Family gatherings were another source of happiness in her life; she cherished spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Richard L. Masters, whom she married on November 8, 1984. Also surviving are her three children, Bonni (Mark) Young of Dover, Fred (Jennifer) Sears of Belmont and Charity (John) Wheeler of Cambridge; two brothers, Larry Stull and Sammy Stull both of New Philadelphia; her six grandchildren, Erika (Scott) Caine, Brandon (Emily) Young, Gregory Sears, Kayla Sears, Zacheus Wheeler, Braxton Wheeler and three great grandchildren, Cory Young, Owen Young and Cori Sears.

In addition to her parents, Ethel was preceded in death by four brothers and two sisters.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation care is to be provided by the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia and there are no public services scheduled.

The family requests that memorial contributions be directed to Ohio’s Hospice-Truman House, 716 Commercial Avenue SE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.