of Little Rock, AR
July 23, 1926 - September 6, 2023
George Raymond Martin, age 97, died peacefully at his home on September 6, 2023. He was born July 23, 1926 to Annie Jane and Joseph Eugene Martin in Leesville, Louisiana. George enlisted in the Marines at the age of 17 and served in the Second Marine Division as a 60mm mortar Gunner in the Asiatic Pacific Theater from 1943 to 1946. He received campaign medals for action in the Marianna Islands, Saipan, Tinian and Okinawa. The last 6 months of his service were spent in the Occupation Forces in Nagasaki after the second atomic bomb was dropped.
After returning home, he met "The One!". After knowing each other for 2 months and 20 days, George and Mary Kathryn Jones were married on November 5, 1946. They raised their daughters, Suzanne, Ramona and Vicki, while living in Louisiana, Missouri and then they moved to Little Rock in 1968.
George spent over 40 years in the insurance business earning his Chartered Life Underwriters (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) designations. His career brought the family to Little Rock where he was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church and the George Preiss Sunday School class. He faithfully served as a deacon and many other offices of his church including Chairman of the Deacon Board.
He is preceded in death by his daughter, Stacy Suzanne Nevener. He is survived by his faithful love of 77 years, Mary Kathryn; as well as his daughters, Ramona Kathryn Elliott (Don) and Vicki Camille Burnett (Terry). He was a proud grandfather to William Eric Townsend (Lori), Jason Martin Townsend (Amy), Laura Suzanne Townsend, Kate Elliott Floyd (Josh), Richard Martin Elliott (Jessica), Tracy Burnett Blaylock (Derek), Marsha Burnett, Olivia Burnett Pierret (Kory) and Ross Martin Burnett. He is survived by great grandsons, Andrew and Joseph Townsend, Peyton, Parker and Jack Floyd, Greer and Henry Blaylock, Hudson Elliott; one great granddaughter, Caroline Elliott and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral Service will be held at 2:00pm Monday, September 11, 2023 at Immanuel Baptist Church, with visitation 1 hour prior to the service. Burial with United States Marine Corps honors will be 3:00pm Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at Pinecrest Memorial Park, Alexander, AR.
Memorials may be made to the Immanuel Baptist Church Bereavement Fund, 501 North Shackelford Road, Little Rock, AR 72211.
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17 Condolence(s)
David Moore
Monday, September 11, 2023
When I think of Immanuel, I think of the Martins — so faithful and loving. I had the privilege of knowing Suzanne before I knew them. She told me about her godly parents. Little did I know that one day they would become great friends. I still cherish the note Mary Kathryn sent me about a year ago. Great couple!!!
Ronnie and Jeana Floyd
Monday, September 11, 2023
We feel blessed to have become a part of this family through the marriage of our son to George’s granddaughter, Kate. What a privilege to have known this great man - wonderful husband, father, grandfather, churchman, and warrior for our country!
Charlie & Jeanne Boling
Sunday, September 10, 2023
Please accept our condolences during this heartbreaking time. We know God’s Blessings and Comforts Mary Kathryn, the Martin Family and Friends. We are so glad to have such great memories of George’s life to comfort us as George’s Soul is resting with Him in Heaven in accordance with Jesus’ “Shalom†~ Peace and Full Salvation.. In His Grace, Charlie & Jeanne Boling
Libbie Dougan
Saturday, September 9, 2023
Dear Miss Mary Katherine, et al, I am asking The Holy Spirit to pour His peace and contentment, comfort and joy, down over you all, like warm honey. As you surely know Mr. George was adored by my daughters and me! Bless your heart. Sending hugs and big red lipstick kisses. Libbie Dougan. Phil. 4:13
Jiggs ramsey
Saturday, September 9, 2023
Knowing George for decades has been a pleasure . A great man that Heaven has opened its gates
Brenda McDougal
Saturday, September 9, 2023
George is a wonderful man. Mary, Ramona, and Vicki, I am praying that God will send The Holy Spirit to Comfort you and your family.
Jodi and Dan Pierret
Friday, September 8, 2023
Vicki and family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your Dad and Papa. He was so friendly and happy. I could tell he had a big heart and loved the Lord. Prayers and hugs to your family.
Susan Brown
Friday, September 8, 2023
He was a wonderful man and Jim and I felt so blessed to start our married life living next door to him. He was always checking up on us and willing to extend far beyond just being a good neighbor. We hurt for you in this loss.
Kimberly Ann Aden
Friday, September 8, 2023
Mr. George Martin was a wonderful man. His smile would light up a room and his heart would brighten my day. It was an honor to know him.
Mike Saint
Friday, September 8, 2023
What a great and good man! A rare life giving spirit. It will be a privilege to meet him some day!
Becky Looney
Friday, September 8, 2023
God’s blessings and peace to you and your family at this difficult time.
Gary and Judy Berteau
Friday, September 8, 2023
We know how much you loved the Lord and you are now with the angels. You loved your family and I remember if we were visiting MawMaw's and I knew you were coming with your family how happy I would be, just being around you. You always ...made us laugh and have a good time .. what a wonderful personality you had.
We will be praying for Aunt Mary Kathryn, Vicki, Mona and all......Love you .. Judy Ree, Gary and children.
Mary Hanson
Thursday, September 7, 2023
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father, Vicki. I visited with your parents at Olivia and Kory's wedding and they were lovely people. Sending sympathy and prayers to the family.
Liese Richardson
Thursday, September 7, 2023
Praying for you all in the days ahead. You all have so many special memories of your precious loved one. What a wonderful life Mr. Martin had! Sending love and hugs!!
Debbie B. Rees
Thursday, September 7, 2023
What an honor it has been to know Mr. Martin! I loved him! He was always smiling with a big twinkle in his eyes. His love for the Lord and his family was evident to all who knew him! His life and his marriage were such a role model to my husband and me.
Jack Bell
Thursday, September 7, 2023
All who had the honor of knowing this fine man will miss him. He was a military hero and a wonderful father, grandfather and great grandfather. I was fortunate to know him through my son-in-law Richard Martin Elliott.
Wyley and Stephanie Elliott
Thursday, September 7, 2023
We loved Mr. Martin and his wonderful family. What an eternal impact his life had on so many people!