Bertha L. Blackburn, 89, of Indianapolis, Indiana, joined our Heavenly Father and her husband of 70 years, Dorman J. Blackburn, on October 4^th, 2018.  She was born on August 21^st, 1929 to Melvin Carl and Lena Louise Schnepf Branson in Indianapolis, Indiana.

After graduating from Thomas Carr Howe High School in 1947, she fell in love with a sailor, Dorman, and they joined in marriage September 25^th, 1948.  She became a Master Cosmetologist in hair artistry and then started and owned her own business, the Arlington Beauty Salon, until her retirement in 1992.

            Over the years, Bertha enjoyed thoroughbred horse racing, traveling, and reading books on faith.  She was a former member of Wallace Street Presbyterian Church and more recently supported “The Hour of Power”.  Bertha was also a humble servant as a caregiver to many family members and provided financial donations to several charities and organizations, including schools for Indian children and Samaritan’s Purse.  She was often referred to as “Nanny” by those closest to her.

Bertha is survived by her daughter Theresa (Bob) Wilson, Grandsons Rob (Christy) Wilson, Greg (Christine) Wilson, Andy (Danae) Wilson, 7 Great Grandchildren, as well as Sisters Jo (late Richard) Walker, Rose (Al) Short, Brothers Lou (Marliyn) Branson, Mel (Connie) Branson, and their extended families.  In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and Brother, William D. Branson.

A family service will be held at Noon on Thursday, October 11^th, 2018 at Indiana Funeral Care with Pastor Eric Gale officiating.  She will be laid to rest next to Dorman in Memorial Park in a private service.