John Laurence "Larry" Martin

John Laurence Martin, known to family and friends as Larry, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, at the age of 88. A lifelong resident of Dallas, Larry was born at Baylor Hospital, along with his twin sister Frances, to Edwin Bryan and Ilene Brawner Martin on July 3, 1937.

Larry went to Highland Park High School, graduating in 1954. He then enrolled in and attended A and M College of Texas (now known as Texas A&M University), where he developed a lifelong love for everything Texas Aggie. Always a good student, he was recognized for his academic achievement by being selected for honorary fraternities before graduating in May 1958. In 1969, Larry received his Master of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University (SMU) by attending classes in the evening while working full time. Again, he was recognized for his academic achievement through election to the Beta Gamma Sigma honorary fraternity.

After graduating from A&M, Larry met the love of his life, Patsy Watkins, on a blind date. Just before they were married, Larry entered active duty into the Air Force and was stationed at Sheppard AFB in Wichita Falls, Texas for a brief stint. Larry was then assigned to Travis AFB, near San Francisco, California. There was just enough time between assignments to get married. Their road trip out to California served as Larry and Patsy’s honeymoon. They just celebrated 66 years together and were, without a doubt, soulmates. They made each other laugh and had fun telling silly jokes and poking fun at one another. They made great memories together travelling to every continent of the world. Their love for one another never wavered and Larry’s love for Patsy shone through in his last few weeks with us.

Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force in late 1962, Larry entered the Executive Training Program at the First National Bank in Dallas. He enjoyed his time at the bank, where he was an officer in the Mortgage Lending Department. In 1974, Larry left the bank to go into the real estate brokerage and development business. Over the years, he participated in numerous commercial real estate transactions that have shaped the development of the Dallas area.

Larry had a huge heart for giving back and being a friend to someone in need. He could always be counted on for a phone call or a visit when someone was going through a rough time. He enjoyed coaching and being involved in youth sports and was an avid fundraiser for the YMCA. He served on the Board of Directors of the Park Cities YMCA where he was Chairman in 1986-87. Larry also used his real estate knowledge in his appointment to the Dallas County Appraisal Review Board, where he served for many years. He stayed active throughout his life, including running 14 marathons, the last of which was at age 65. A devout Christian, Larry loved being a member of Park Cities Presbyterian Church, where he rarely missed a Sunday. He and Patsy particularly enjoyed belonging to the Believers’ Fellowship Sunday School class. Larry treasured being a part of the usher team, the perfect job fit for him, as he always had a welcoming smile and a genuine interest in everyone he met.

Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Patsy, son John Laurence Martin, Jr. (Robin), daughter Catherine Martin Garcia (Rey), grandchildren John Laurence Martin III and Michael Porch Martin. He is also survived by his twin sister Frances Martin Flaig, nephew Bryan Joseph Flaig and niece Louise Elizabeth Flaig. The family wants to thank all of Larry’s phenomenal caregivers, especially those in ICU at Baylor Scott & White Heart Hospital and the Hospice Unit at CC Young Senior Living.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Park Cities Presbyterian Church Missions Ministry, St. Philips School and Community Center in Dallas or the charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Park Cities Presbyterian Church in Dallas on Saturday, May 23rd at 11:00 am.