Hospital Corpsman James Thomas Martin

James was born December 23, 1999 to Gregory and Deborah Martin. He grew up in a Christian home alongside his three sisters, and was an active member of Grace Bible Church and Christian Service Brigade. James had a vibrant imagination. Inspired by his favorite authors, James invented his own written language and drew hundreds of detailed maps for novels that were continuously in process. He was usually outdoors – playing team sports, camping with family or friends, or putting himself through training exercises. Even so, he found time to research any topic that interested him at great length. As a child, James declared his intention to work on something new every day so that when he was an adult he would be able to do everything. Ultimately, he made his most ambitious dream come true.

After graduating Pensacola Christian College with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, James enlisted in the United States Navy. The grit and determination, hunger for knowledge, and commitment to service that had guided James through his life, made him an asset to everyone he worked alongside. James joined the long and honored tradition of Navy Corpsman, and was respected and valued by his Marines. For his efforts, he was awarded the Fleet Marine Force pin (Ground Combat Element), a National Defense Medal, and was named 3d Marine Littoral Regiment and 3d Marine Division’s Blue Jacket of the Quarter for FY25 1st Quarter.

James is survived by his loving parents, Gregory and Deborah Martin; his sisters, Hannah Martin, Joanna (Giovanni) Washington, and Leah (Stephen) Harless; his nephew, Luca Washington; his grandfathers, Gordon David and James Martin; his uncles, John (Angela) Martin and Robert (Sharon) David; his cousins, Alyssa and Alex Martin and many friends and service members. He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Joyce David, Joann Martin and Mary Martin.

A funeral service for James will be held on Monday, June 9, 2025 at 11:00 am at South Church (5250 Cornerstone Dr, Lansing, MI 48917). The family will receive guests for visitation from 9:30 am until the time of service. A committal service and military honors will take place at Wacousta Cemetery at 2:00 pm

In honor of James’ memory and his desire to care for the mental health of our service members, the family invites you to make donations to Mighty Oaks Foundation.