Martha Rhonda Fitzgerald (Bussard), 79, of Gettysburg, passed away peacefully on the 29th of December to be with the Lord. She was loving and devoted to her family, will be remembered for her generosity, volunteering, multiple talents, and practicing her Presbyterian faith.
Marty, as she was known to many, was born in Dubois, Pennsylvania, the second of four children to Harvey Bussard and Mary (Smith) Bussard. She attended the Brockway Area School District and later graduated from Maryland Medical Secretary School with an Associate Degree. Later in life, she continued her education, attending additional training for her career field. Her work history included: Polyclinic Hospital, Harrisburg, PA, Fairchild Hiller, Hagerstown, MD, Harrisburg Hospital, Harrisburg, PA, Dr. Guyton Waynesboro, PA, Brookville Hospital, Brookville, PA, Dubois Hospital, Dubois, PA, Weis Markets Bakery, Gettysburg, PA. While raising her family, she created a cottage business making numerous types of stuffed and ceramic dolls; additionally, she provided catered baking services such as wedding cakes, specialty items, and fundraisers.
She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, family meals, traveling across the country, crafting, sewing, baking, and supporting our military. In her later years, she made blankets, hats, scarves for the church and graduating high school seniors.
Marty is survived by her brother Ronald Bussard, sister Janet (Kenneth) King, and predeceased brother Raymond Bussard. Her three children: daughter Janice Elder, son Brian Fitzgerald, and daughter Diane (Jason) Brannan. Grandchildren: Kailey Elder, Danielle Lewis, and John (Janessa) Elder. Riley Fitzgerald, Cian Fitzgerald, Nathaniel Mabry III, Amanda (Josh) Hale, Kaiden Brannan, Ashelyn Brannan. Great-grandchildren: Evelyn Lewis, Allen Lewis, Elijah Lewis, and James Hale.
A memorial service will be held by Chaplain George Bradshaw on Saturday, the 21st of March 2026 at 11 A.M., located at the Monocacy Valley Memorial VFW Post 6918, 5801 Conover Rd, Taneytown, MD 21787, with lunch to follow.
Memorial donations are being accepted to Forever Love Rescue, 39 Queen St., Gettysburg, PA 17325, or online at https://foreverloverescue.com.