Sidney Martin Jr.

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Sidney Martin Jr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, on May 29, 2026, just two days shy of his 85th birthday. Sidney left this world peacefully at Huntsville Hospital's SICU unit, surrounded by the love of his family, following a brief illness.

Born on May 31, 1941, in Natchez, Mississippi, Sidney was the cherished son of the late Sidney Martin and Thelma Burruss Martin. He was a beacon of light to his family, embodying the values of kindness, generosity, and laughter. Sidney was predeceased by his siblings: LeThelma Jordan, Catherine Rayburn, Matilda Pattison, Johnny Martin, and Willie Martin, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He has one remaining brother, James William (JW) Martin who resides in Elba, AL.

Sidney's journey was one of service and devotion. After graduating from Addison High School, Port Gibson, MS in 1959. He dedicated 24 years to the United States Army, where he rose to the rank of Master Sergeant. His military career was marked by two tours in Vietnam as a helicopter mechanic, a tour in South Korea as a HAWK radar technician, three years in Germany, and later worked in Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal. His commitment to his country continued after retirement as he served the Department of the Army for two decades, working on the STINGER Missile Systems and contributing to various defense projects.

In 1962, Sidney married the love of his life, Willie Sue Martin, in Lillington, North Carolina. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and resilience, raising four wonderful children: Angela Scott (Gregory), Cindy Martin, Beverly Whaley (L. Anthony), and Sidney Martin III. His legacy further extends to his grandchildren, Jessie Watkins (Brittany), Tiara Whaley (Ian), Marcus Watkins, and Tamara Whaley, and 17 cherished great-grandchildren. Sidney's family was his pride and joy, and he was a strong tower, teaching them the value of hard work, faith, and love.

Sidney was a man of many talents and interests. An avid fisherman, he enjoyed fishing from the riverbanks to the deep sea. His vegetable garden was a testament to his love for nature and community, as he generously shared its produce with family and friends. Sidney was also a handyman extraordinaire, always ready to lend a helping hand. He was steadfast in attending many football games, basketball games, and ROTC events that his grandchildren and great grand children participate in. He cherished reading, traveling, and spending time with his loved ones, often entertaining them with his famous "DAD jokes" and warm humor. A dedicated community member, Sidney volunteered at the Madison County Elections Polls and was an active member of the Vietnam Veteran Association. His faith was a cornerstone of his life. He faithfully attended and supported the ministry of

Phillips CME Church in various compacities, he especially enjoyed being a member of the Phillips Brotherhood Community Outreach (PBCO).

His life will be celebrated on June 6, 2026, at 1:00 PM. The family extends their gratitude to the compassionate staff of Huntsville Hospital's SICU unit, particularly Ebony and Prestin, for their exceptional care and kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Kidney Foundation.

Sidney Martin Jr. never met a stranger and he left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. His kindness, humor, and generosity will be remembered and cherished by all who were fortunate to know him. As we gather to honor his remarkable life, we celebrate a legacy of love, laughter, and selfless service. Rest in peace, dear Sidney. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Visitation will be held at Valhalla Funeral Home, 698 Winchester Road NE, Huntsville, AL 35811 on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

A Homegoing Service will take place at Phillips CME Church, 2185 Winchester Rd NW, Huntsville, AL 35810 on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 1:00 pm. Mr. Martin will lie in repose one hour prior to service time.

You will be able to view the service via livestream at the Phillips CME Church, Huntsville, AL Facebook page and YouTube: @phillipscmechurchhuntsvill7127

Phillips CME Church

2185 Winchester Rd NW

Huntsville, AL 35810

www.phillipscmechurch.org

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will immediately follow at Valhalla Memory Gardens & Funeral, 698 Winchester Road NE, Huntsville, AL 35811.