LaBelle C. Murtha, 82, of Norwalk, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 4, 2023, at Fisher-Titus Medical Center.  She was born on February 18, 1941, in Manhattan, New York, to the late Harry and Florence (Johnson) Murtha Sr.  She graduated from Atlantic Highlands High School in New Jersey and moved to Ohio in 1971 to pursue singing opportunities.

LaBelle was musically inclined, and incredibly talented.  She enjoyed playing the piano and organ, singing, and performing concerts for others.  Blind from birth, she lived a remarkably independent life.  She was a member of the Milan Friends Church, where she played piano and organ.  LaBelle served as Treasurer of the Firelands Society for the Blind, Secretary of the Huron County Welfare Advisory Board, and was a longtime volunteer with Abigail Ministries.

LaBelle is survived by her brother Harry (Patricia) Murtha of New Jersey; nephews, Harry B. (Melissa) Murtha III and Daniel (Angela) Murtha; 8 great nephews and nieces; and close friends, Danny (Nancy) Levy of Norwalk, and Larry (Joanne) Lepard of Norwalk.

In addition to her parents, LaBelle was preceded in death by her close friend, Betty Jean Nims.

Family and friends are invited to her visitation on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, at the Milan Friends Church, 2018 Mason Rd. East, Milan, Ohio, 44846, from 11 a.m. until the time of the 12 p.m. (noon) service.  LaBelle will be laid to rest privately in Shoreland Memorial Cemetery in New Jersey.  Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Milan Friends Church (address above).  Online expressions of sympathy may be made by visiting www.walkereastmanheydingerfh.com