Millersburg Matriarch Martha Schrock Dies at 96, Church Teacher

Martha Schrock, 96, of Millersburg, died Jan. 4, 2026. Born Sept. 13, 1929, in Glenmont, she married M. Dale Schrock in 1948 and spent much of her life rooted in the local Mennonite community.

Schrock was an active member of Walnut Creek Mennonite Church, where she taught Sunday school and took part in Bible studies and Stephen Ministries. Her church work placed her at the center of faith-based programs that support spiritual education and pastoral care in Holmes County, and her long involvement contributed to the continuity of church programs that serve children, families and congregants in need.

Outside the church, Schrock cultivated greenhouse gardens and was a dedicated quilter. She produced quilts and other handmade items that were sold through area shops, providing both creative expression and modest economic support to local small businesses. Her horticultural work and craft-making are part of a broader tradition in the county of home-based production that helps sustain community commerce and local markets.

Survivors include two sons, a daughter-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Memorial service information and preferences were provided by the family; those wishing to honor her memory are asked to direct memorial contributions to Mission Aviation Fellowship through Walnut Creek Mennonite Church. Funeral arrangements were handled by Smith-Varns Funeral Home in Sugarcreek.

For residents of Holmes County, Schrock’s passing is a reminder of the role long-standing local volunteers play in sustaining civic and religious life. Her teaching in Sunday school and participation in church ministries helped shape the faith education of younger generations, and her quilts and greenhouse produce were tangible contributions to the local economy and community identity.

Funeral and memorial details are being managed locally by Smith-Varns Funeral Home, and the church is coordinating memorial contributions. Community members who knew Schrock through church, quilting circles or local shops may find opportunities in coming days to pay respects and share memories with family and neighbors.