Jonathan Martin, Jr. "Lil Joe"

A humble, loving man, Jonathan Martin, Jr. (‘Lil Joe), departed this earth surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at Spectrum (Butterworth) Hospital. Age 54 years. He was born on September 26, 1966 in Saginaw, Michigan to Jonathan Martin,Sr., and Diane Latrice Washington-Martin.

Jonathan (‘Lil Joe) Martin previously resided in Saginaw, Michigan where he attended Saginaw High School. He relocated to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he resided until his passing. Mr. Martin fellowshipped with The Moorish Science Temple of America. He also served as a board member on the Coalition Leadership Education and Rehabilitation (CLEAR). He was a motivational speaker and was privileged to speak at Cooley Law School.

Jonathan had a magnetic personality, and an infectious smile, (those dimples). He had such a carefree and loving spirit. His sensible words of advice were sought out by many, and he was always a safeguard for your innermost thoughts and secrets. He was a true friend. Everyone knew him as ‘Lil Joe, a gentle humble giant, who needed no introduction. His mere presence spoke volumes; he was selfless and showed real unconditional love. Jonathan loved his family and always enjoyed time spent with them.
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Lil Joe leaves us with a quote, “ALL IS WELL!”

Jonathan (‘Lil Joe) leaves to cherish his memory, a life partner and love of his life, Fonda Payton, Grand Rapids, Michigan); four daughters and two sons- in-love, Sharmain Miller, Janasha Miller, DaJana Miller, Shonta Miller, Jlen Miller, Grand Rapids, Michigan, Santonio (Shay) Martin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; grandchildren-in-love, Shontaeja , Aa’Naja , AaNilah , SaaRiyah , DaLen, Laiden, a special grandson, Kash, True, Legend, and Santonio Jr.; sister, Audrey (Brian) James, Lake Mary, Florida; brothers, Eric Martin, Derryl (Monica) Martin, Vance (Tracey) Martin, Saginaw, Michigan, Anthony (Trinity) Martin, Reese, Michigan; step-sister, Michelle (Carlos) Wells, Ponchatula, Louisiana; god-sisters, Velissa Batts, Melissa Owens, Bridgette Martin Freeman, and Dione Barrett; godmother Floyd, and Beverley Buchanan; a special aunt, Irene Martin-Thomas “Shug;” special cousin, Sparkle “spook” Davis; special friends, Fred McKnight, Renny Ronnie Cotton, and Steve Morris.; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Jonathan (‘Lil Joe) was preceded in death by his parents, Jonathan Martin, Sr. and Leatrice Diane Washington-Martin, stepmother, Ledoris Martin, grandparents, Moses, Sr. and Irene Martin, Bernice Morris, and James Washington.

The family would like to express special thanks to Ivan E. Phillips and the Staff of Paradise Funeral Chapel.