Martha Dean (Nelson) Nobles

Martha “Dean” Nobles, 86, of Mt. Vernon, Indiana, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, at Linda White Hospice House. She was reunited in heaven with the love of her life, Wilfred “Bud” Nobles Sr., as he awaited her at the pearly gates on his heavenly birthday.

Dean and Bud shared a life filled with love and adventure, living in several places before settling down to build their legacy. Together, they raised two wonderful children and established Dean’s Diner, a beloved Mt. Vernon institution they operated for over 40 years. Through her passion for cooking and her open-hearted nature, Dean created a welcoming environment where everyone felt like family. Dean’s generosity extended far beyond her loved ones. She firmly believed in second chances and was always willing to help those in need, often offering jobs to people who needed a fresh start. She made it her mission to ensure no one went without, especially on holidays or when her business was closed. This is the legacy of Dean’s Diner—a place of kindness, acceptance, and unwavering support.

Dean found joy in gardening, flowers, and cooking. She loved watching the news and late-night television, but above all, she cherished time with her family and anyone willing to accept her love. She had a remarkable gift for taking people in, caring for them as her own, and showering them with affection. Her nurturing spirit also extended to animals, and she was known for spoiling her pets as much as she did her loved ones.

Dean was born on October 31, 1938, to Wesley and Ellen (Turner) Nelson. She is survived by her grandchildren: Sabrina (Ryan) Harms, Sarah Jameson, and Wilfred (Heather) Nobles III; great-grandchildren: Kayla, Malaki, and Nate Harms; Blayke Reeley; Raelyn and Hadleigh Nobles; and Taggert and Mattix Cope; her brother, Roger Nelson; and her beloved dog, Rocky. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wilfred "Bud" Nobles Sr.; her children, Wilfred "Jerry" Nobles Jr. and Anita Goff; her granddaughter, Jerri-Lynn Nobles; and her siblings, Gordon, Larry, Donald, Wayne, Johnny, Sharon, Marge, and Carolyn.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at Denning Family Funeral Home, with Rev. Troy DeKemper officiating. Burial will follow at Bellefontaine Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to assist with expenses. Online condolences may be shared at denningfamilyfuneralhome.com

 The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Linda White Hospice House for their compassion and care during this difficult time.