Joe Carl Martin, Jr., age 98, passed away on Tuesday September 28, 2021. Originally from Orangefield, Texas, Carl was a 1941 graduate of John H. Reagan High School, and attended the University of Houston. While serving in the Army Air Corps, as a First Lieutenant and Airplane Commander, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross.
He was President of Carl Martin Oil Well Service (family business) after retirement; he served as Treasurer and Missions Director of his church. Carl personally aided in building over 30 churches on mission trips to Mexico, as recounted in his published memoirs, “God’s Hand On My Shoulder: from WWII Bomber Pilot to Building Churches in Mexico.”
Carl was a member of several square-dance groups and active in his community. He served on the Board of Directors for Harris County Emergency Corp.
He was a good man and always willing to give his time and a helping hand.
Carl is survived by his devoted wife Virginia, a blended family of four sons, one daughter, two dear nieces, nephew and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many other loved ones. He was preceded in death by his wife Evelyn of 52 years, mother, father, beloved sister and brother in law.
Funeral will be held at Houston National (Veteran’s) Cemetery, 10410 Veteran’s Memorial, Houston, TX, 77038. Time and date to be announced at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, it was Carl’s wish any donations be made to Camp Hope.
Burial will be held at Houston National Cemetery with full military honors.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.AmericanHeritageFuneralHome.com for the Martin family.
