Carol Lou Jones Martin

Carol Lou Jones Martin, 82, passed away on June 29, 2026. Born in Houston, Texas, on November 27, 1943, Carol was raised in Midland, Texas, where the steady roots of home helped shape a life marked by courage, endurance, and a deep devotion to those she loved.

Carol was an entrepreneur who built her own cleaning business, meeting the demands of life with resolve and practical wisdom. In the work of caring for homes and serving others, she brought a steady compassion and an unshakable sense of responsibility—qualities that remained evident in every season of her life.

A spirited love of the outdoors and open roads ran through Carol’s days. She treasured time at the beach, especially Galveston Island, and she was known as a champion BBQer who enjoyed cook-offs and the pride of a meal well made. In earlier years, she found joy in trail riding, and as a rancher she carried forward a strong, capable way of life. She delighted in going to her son’s rodeos, and she especially loved driving her Jeep—an everyday expression of her adventurous heart and resilient independence. Alongside her strength, Carol carried a warm humor that could lighten a moment and draw people close.

Carol was the mother of two children, one daughter and one son. Her legacy lives on through her children, granddaughter, and family—those she cherished and loved with steadfast devotion.

Carol was preceded in death by her long time companion, Sam Freeman; her daughter, Nicole McCrory; her brother, Jimmy Jones; her mother, Norma Mae Dillard; and her father, Lem Lue Jones, Jr.

She is survived by her granddaughter and husband, Nicole and Dustin Dufner; her son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Rebecca Murphy; her great granddaughter, Lillyann Dufner; and her great grandsons, Carson and Cain Dufner.