Gary Paul Martin Sr., a devoted husband, loving father, and proud former Marine passed away peacefully on June 11, 2024, at the age of 75. Gary’s steadfast dedication to his family and his country defined his life and left a legacy for all who knew him.
Born on April 24, 1949 in Mulberry, Arkansas, Gary grew up with a strong sense of duty and an unwavering moral compass. These values led him to enlist in the United States Marine Corps at the age of 18, where he served with honor and distinction. Gary’s military service took him to Vietnam. His bravery and leadership earned him numerous commendations and the respect of his fellow Marines. Gary is a hero in the eyes of so many including his family, friends, and fellow military members.
After finishing his time with the Marine Corps Gary pursued a career in manufacturing and construction, where his precision and work ethic thrived. Despite his demanding career, Gary’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He married the love of his life, Julie, June 1, 1973 and together they built a home filled with love and laughter. Gary was a dedicated father to their four children, Angie, Gary, Amber, and Christa. He cherished every moment spent with them, whether watching them in their activities, enjoying spending time with grandkids, or sharing his love for the outdoors.
Gary’s orneriness, kindness, humor and generosity were felt by everyone he met. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel valued and heard. His infectious laughter and warm smile were a source of comfort and joy to his family and friends.
Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; his four children, Angie (Darren) Gilley, Gary (Rhoda) Martin, Amber (Jon) Brown, and Christa Martin (Greg Kittle); grandkids, Hunter Cabe, Anna Martin, Danial Berry, Charity Abernathy, Alexis Hattabaugh, Alia Martin, Bailee Cronister, Connor Brown, Elias Martin, Daytona Gilley, Jayden Martin, Isabella Martin, Carter Brown, Emma Brown, Martin Gilley and Wesley Martin and nine great grandkids, plus a few on the way. In addition to family, he has many lifelong friends and multiple honorary kids and grandkids that will miss him. He is preceded in death by his father, John Martin and his mother, Pauline Moore.
A military honor of life will be held at 9 a.m. on Friday, June 14 at the Fort Smith National Cemetery under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Wounded Warrior Project in Gary’s honor, a cause he would be passionate about, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675 or www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
Gary Paul Martin Sr. legacy of courage, love, and service will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him. He now has a place to “whoop and holler” with a beer in hand. Semper Fi.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.mcconnellfh.com.
