John B. Martin's Obituary
On Monday morning, November 14, 2011, a much-loved husband, daddy, granddaddy and friend died at home. John B. Martin was born February 8, 1926 in Ward, Alabama and moved to Texas at six years of age. He caught the school bus to attend McCaulley and Hamlin schools where he met his childhood sweetheart, Frances Steele. They were married August 7, 1945 while John was on leave in New York City during World War II while serving in the US Navy. John saw action in Normandy, southern France, and Sicily. Following the war, the newlyweds came to Longview where John attended LeTourneau Tech to learn the machinist trade. On completion of his training, he worked for LeTourneau for 17 years; he then went to Kelly Springfield, Tyler and retired after 30 years. John and Frances joined Mobberly Baptist in 1946. He served as a Deacon, Chairman of the Deacons, and Chairman of the first phase of Mobberly's building program at the current location.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jan Martin Doan; mother, Minnie Ward Martin; father, Simeon Martin; sister, Frances Martin Kirk; and brother, Dewey Martin.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 66 years, Frances Steele Martin, son and daughter-in-law, Ted and Rhonda Martin of Rockwall, Texas; grandson Chris and wife Scarlett of Rockwall, Texas; grandson Drew and wife Emily of Wiley, Texas; great-grandchildren Andie Noel and Will Davis Martin of Rockwall and brothers-in-law, sister-in-law and a host of nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Thursday, November 17 from 1:30 – 3:00 at the Mobberly Hospitality room and foyer. Immediately following at 3:00, a celebration of his life will be held in the Sanctuary. Services are under the direction of Rader Funeral Home of Longview.
The family request that memorials may be made to Mobberly Baptist Church Building Fund 625 E. Loop 281, Longview, Texas 75605.
A memorial guestbook may be signed online at www.raderfh.com.
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