Raymond L. Martin Jr.

Raymond L. Martin, Jr., 71, of Gastonia, passed away peacefully on Monday October 24, 2022 surrounded by his loving family. Ray was a committed Christian that loved Jesus and his church. He was a devout family man who loved his children and grandchildren – often spoiling his grandkids rotten. He cherished his wife Robyn and treated her like royalty. Ray took great pride in serving his country in The United States Air Force. He was a die hard Boston Red Sox fan and passed that down to his children. Ray was very generous and loved to help others in need. Professionally, Ray worked for the Gaston Gazette as the IT director. He was often described as one of a kind with a great personality and knack for terrible dad jokes. Many will miss Ray.

Ray’s father, Raymond L. Martin, Sr. preceded him in death.

Left to cherish their memories of Ray and to carry on his legacy are his wife of 46 years, Robyn (Ray) Martin, his children Jennifer Pennington and her husband Matthew and Matthew Martin and his wife Courtney. Ray’s Mother, Betty (Long) Martin is grieving the loss of her son. Missing their Pappy are his five grandchildren; Gabriel Pennington, Phillip Pennington and Heath Martin, Hudson Martin, Harper Martin “his triplets”. Ray’s brother, Roger Martin and Fiancé Carolyn are also grieving Ray’s passing.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday evening, October 27, 2022 at Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park, 2205 Williamsburg Drive, Gastonia.

A service celebrating Ray’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday October 28, 2022 at Alexander Memorial Baptist Church, 208 South Main Street, Belmont, NC. Reverend John Pea will officiate and offer words of encouragement and hope to family and friends that gather to remember Ray. Reverend Jerry Pennington and Reverend Matt Pennington will also participate in the service. Matthew Pennington, Gabriel Pennington, Phillip Pennington, Matthew Martin, Heath Martin, Hudson Martin, Jack Ray Sr., David Christenbery and David Summey will serve as pallbearers.

Burial with full military honors, accorded by The United States Air Force and The Gaston County Honor Guard, will follow the service at Gaston Memorial Park in Gastonia.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made in Ray’s name to Wounded Warrior Project www.supportwwp.org

Fond memories of Ray and condolences for the family may be left at www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com.

The staff of Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park is honored to serve the Martin.