Jimmy William Martin

Jim was a graduate of Gladewater High School Class of 1961, was a licensed Barber, and a Vietnam veteran of the United States Navy, where he served aboard the USS Kemper County. He was a lifelong member of VFW Post 4002, where he also served as a former Commander. He was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church in Longview (Spring Hill).

Jim Martin was best known as the owner of Jim Trim Barber Shop. Owning and operating the shop for 62 years, he gave thousands of haircuts during that time. His barbershop was more than a place to get a haircut — it was a hub for catching up on local news and enjoying lively conversation.

Jim was a kind and generous man who often helped those in need without expecting thanks or acknowledgment. He was deeply knowledgeable and kept up with current events, reading the paper cover to cover, attending city council events, and watching the news daily. If you ever had the chance to sit and visit with him, you’d walk away knowing more about Longview — especially the Greggton area — than when you came in.

While the barbershop was his primary business, Jim also owned and operated several others throughout his life, including Baker Street, Holly Shop, and Jim Trim Barber College. He delivered The Longview News-Journal for many years and also ran a long-time side business selling bean bag chairs — bringing countless smiles to customers over the years.

Jim’s greatest joy was his daughters, grandchildren, and extended family. He is survived by his daughters Holly Bonnette (Anthony), April Martin-Hayes (Kyle), and Shelby Martin; his grandchildren Bridge Martin, Lillian Martin, and Mack Martin-Hayes; and his youngest sister, Linda Collins. He is also survived by two stepchildren, Rodney Carrington and Paige Stephenson.

Additionally, Jim is survived by seven nieces and nephews: Julie Laub (Tommy), Kyle Anderson, Sonya Valentine, Steven Anderson (Maritiza), Scott Morgan, Todd Morgan, and Shea Morgan; as well as nine great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathan Chester Martin and Mable Alliece Martin; his sister, Doris Anderson, and brother-in-law, Lonnie Anderson; cousins Billie Jo Gray and Brenda Gray; and his great-niece, Rachel Laub.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the many individuals and organizations who provided compassionate care and support during Jim’s final months. We are especially grateful to Shaundra Jones of Veteran Affairs, whose kindness, dedication, and personal support meant so much to both Jim and his family. Deep thanks also to Angela Stagg of the VA Service Office and the entire team at the Longview VA Clinic for their guidance and care.

We are deeply grateful to the team at DaVita Longview, and to the wonderful caregivers Carla Whitley and Teri Jones with Comfort Keepers. Special thanks also to Kent Rutherford of Whispering Pines and the staff at Longview Regional Medical Center for their dedicated care.

The family extends special thanks to the members of VFW Post 4002 for their lifelong camaraderie and continued presence in Jim’s life.

We are also especially thankful for the kindness, friendship, and constant support of Beverly Jernigan, KT Anderson, Angie Dickson and Family, Sue Buenneke, April Holder, Pam Martin, Richard and Sheron Smith and Family, Brad and Latressa Watson and Family, Ronnie Plilar, Ronnie Carroway, Billy Clay, and the many loyal customers of Jim Trim, whose presence meant so much throughout Jim’s life.

Graveside services for Jimmy William Martin will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Lakeview Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, Longview, Texas.

Pallbearers will be: Bridge Martin, Anthony Bonnette, Kyle Hayes, Steven Anderson, Richard Smith, and Pete Delgado.

Honorary pallbearers will be: Mack Martin-Hayes and Kyle Anderson.