David LaDon Martin

David Martin, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away peacefully at home. He was born in Anna, Illinois, to the late Leonard and Virginia Martin and was raised in Metropolis, where his life was built on the foundation of faith, family, and hard work.

David grew up on the family’s cattle farm, working alongside his parents and brother—lessons in responsibility, humility, and service that shaped the man he became. As the family farm transitioned to crops, David remained connected to the land throughout his life. In recent years, he was joyfully preparing to move to Alabama to enjoy a smaller farm and be closer to his children and granddaughters.

A 1978 graduate of Samford University, David began his pharmacy career at Eckerd’s Pharmacy in Trussville, Alabama. He later returned home to Metropolis and faithfully served the community as the owner and operator of Humma’s Drug Store for over 30 years. For the past 8 years, he continued that work at Metropolis Drugs No.1, where he was known not just for his expertise, but his kindness and care.

David was a dedicated public servant, having spent 28 years on the Southern Illinois Electric Cooperative Board, where he worked to support and strengthen his community. His heart for service extended to his church as well—he was a faithful member of Metropolis First Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and was deeply involved alongside his family. He was also an active member of the Metropolis Gideons for many years, committed to sharing God’s Word and message of hope through their ministry.

A devoted man of God, David’s love for gospel music began early in life, singing hymns with his father. That passion grew into a ministry of music, and he spent over 15 years singing in the Cross Harmony Quartet, sharing God’s word through song with churches and communities across the region.

David was a loving husband to Lillie Martin and a steady presence in the lives of those he loved. He found joy in the simple things—riding his motorcycle with Lillie, spending time with his granddaughters, and showing up for every big moment and quiet gathering alike. He was a proud father to Westly Martin and Gabrielle Harris, and a cherished “Poppie and Pop Pop” to Raegan, Lily, and Preslie Harris.

He is survived by his wife, Lillie Martin; son, Westly Martin; daughter, Gabrielle Harris and husband Benjamin; and granddaughters, Raegan Harris, Lily Harris, and Preslie Harris. He is also survived by his brother, Steve Martin and wife Ginny; brother-in-law, Billy East and wife MiChele; nephew, Jeremy Martin and wife Melissa; nieces, Jillian Crews and husband Daniel, JennyLynn Miller and husband John, and Billie Jean Cole and husband Tanner; great-nieces, Leona Crews, Lennox Crews, and LuAnna Kate Crews; and great-nephews, Gavin Crews, Guy Crews, and Joel Miller.

David’s legacy is one of faith, family, music, and community. He led with quiet strength, loved generously, and lived out his beliefs in everything he did. His presence will be deeply missed, but his life will be remembered with joy and gratitude by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family request that donations be made in his honor to Let's Spread the Good News, Gideons International at www.gideons.org.

A Graveside service for David will be held on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM in Oakwood Memorial Gardens, 2100 Moncrief Road, Gardendale, AL 35071.