On Tuesday, May 5, 2015, Mr. J.W. Martin Sr. gained his eternal wings and entered the Kingdom of Heaven at the age of 74 years. He was born January 15, 1941 in Grady, Arkansas to William M. Martin and Leola Skinner Martin.
J. W. served his country with the United States Army for 6 years receiving an Honorable Discharge on October 5, 1966. He retired from Saginaw Malleable Plant after over 30 years of service and was a member of UAW Local 455. For over 60 years J.W. was a faithful member of Truevine Missionary Baptist Church, currently under the leadership of Pastor Paul E. Broaddus where he was a member of the Male Chorus and Mass Choir. J.W. enjoyed fishing and playing cards with his family and friends. He truly loved his family and his wonderful presence will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
He leaves to celebrate his legacy his devoted children who took care of him, J.W. Martin Jr. (Trenna), Karen Wright, Troy (Valarie) Wright of Saginaw, Michigan, and Celeste Wright of Independence, Louisiana; twelve grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; one sister, Mary Curtis of Saginaw, Michigan; two brothers, Earl Martin and Jeremiah (Kathy) Martin both of Saginaw, Michigan; many nieces including three special nieces, Theresa, Yvonne and Catherine Goodman; several nephews including a special nephew, Jerry Goodman; many other relatives and friends including a special and loyal friend, Willie James Swilley.
Mr. Martin Sr. was preceded in death by his parents, Leola and William Martin, one daughter, Lafayette Martin, one grandson, Jermaine Martin, two sisters, Dessie Bradley and Zemira Goodman, five brothers, Chester Martin, S.W. Martin, William Martin Jr., Johnny Lee Martin and Freddy Martin, one brother-in-law, Wardell Goodman.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for the many acts of kindness shown during our time of bereavement. A special thanks to Tim of St. Marys of Michigan Medical Center, Ivan E. Phillips and the staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel. May God bless each of you and sustain an everlasting peace within your soul.
Visitation: Tuesday, May 12, 2015 - 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Family Hour: 5:00 p.m.
Paradise Funeral Chapel
3100 South Washington Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
(989)754-4826
Funeral Service: Wednesday, May 13, 2015 - 11:00 a.m.
Truevine Missionary Baptist Church
2930 Janes Avenue
Saginaw, Michigan 48601
(989)752-0751
Officiating: Pastor Paul E. Broaddus
Interment: Forest Lawn Cemetery
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