Bro. Raymond A. Martin, 97, of Columbia, KY passed away on Sunday, June 20, 2021 at his home. Bro. Martin was born on October 16, 1923 in the Glendale Community of Hardin County, KY to the late Fred and Irene Dunagan Martin.
He was a U.S. Navy Veteran having served during World War II. After returning home from war, he attended Johnson Bible College where he graduated in 1952. After graduation, he served churches in Tennessee, North Carolina, West Virginia, and Kentucky, later finding a home at Columbia Christian Church where he served as minister for 20 years. After the conclusion of his service at Columbia Christian Church, he served many other Christian churches in the area filling in or serving part-time, and during this time also holding revivals and other meetings. His detailed records show he conducted 614 baptisms, 133 weddings, and 1,037 funerals. His Christian legacy will live on through the many lives that he has touched.
In addition to his ministry, Bro. Martin was an avid sports fan and was a strong supporter of Adair County High School Athletics and Lindsey Wilson College Athletics.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Jessie Cofer Martin; his 2nd wife, Martha Barnes Martin; one daughter, Becky Hamm; one grandson, Blake Burris Martin; 2 brothers: Fred Lewis Martin and Frank Martin; and a sister, Norma Jean Perry.
SURVIVORS:
1 daughter: Barbara Grasham & husband Gene of Columbia, KY
3 sons: Richard Martin & wife Patty of Glasgow, KY; Stephen Martin & wife Ann and David Martin & wife Cathy, both of Columbia, KY
1 sister: Mary Jane Upton of Louisville, KY
13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, along with Martha’s 2 children, 2 grandchildren, & 2 great-grandchildren
A host of nieces, nephews, & other relatives & Christian friends
Funeral Service: Friday, June 25, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. at Columbia Christian Church, 206 Campbellsville Street, Columbia, KY
Burial: At a later time in Haven Hill Cemetery
Visitation: Friday, June 25, 2021 from 11:00amCT until time for the service at 7:00pmCT at Columbia Christian Church
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of a donation to the Bro. Raymond A. Martin and Jessie Martin endowment fund at Johnson University, 7900 Johnson Drive, Knoxville, TN 37998 OR to the charity of your choice.
Grissom-Martin Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.