Kenneth Edward Martin, Sr.

Kenneth Edward Martin, Sr. of Raleigh passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, June 2, 2024. He was born at the Mary Elisabeth Hospital on Bloodworth Street in Raleigh to Curman and Lillian (Nipper) Martin on January 3, 1939, and was the big brother to sisters, Patricia (Morrison) and Carolyn (Allen).

Ken graduated from Garner High School in 1957 and then entered the United States Navy where he served for six years. Following his discharge from active duty, Ken studied at the University of Maryland and entered the financial services business with the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (and later American Defender Life Insurance Company) until 1983 when he co-founded Advisors Financial Group (formerly, First Protective Financial Corporation) with his close friend David Bell.

During his years in this field, he obtained a master’s degree in financial sciences as well as ChFC, CLU and several NASD certifications. Appointed by Governor Jim Martin, he was a member of the North Carolina Savings and Loan Commission and the North Carolina Banking Commission. He often noted that he considered himself extremely fortunate to love his work and the many colleagues and clients that he served over his career.

At the age of 50, Ken discovered golf and, in his words, became a golf nut. He immensely enjoyed playing with his buddies at North Ridge Country Club and with his sons at Mid-South Club in Pinehurst and at Oak Island, NC. In thirty-five years, he somehow lucked into two holes-in-one, a few eagles, a number of birdies, many pars and numerous others he’d rather not discuss.

He leaves behind his lovely wife of 50 years, Connie, his daughter Chris (Mike) and his sons Ed (Teri), Adam (Melissa) and Clay (Mary-Katherine). He also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren: Kyle Martin (Beth), Kayla Bailey (George), AJ Martin, Henry Martin, Olivia Martin and Hill Martin; three great-grandchildren: Emmie and Lyra Martin and Millie Bailey; and his little sister, Carolyn.

Per his wishes, there will be no public services.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations may be made in Ken’s honor to the V Foundation or the Duke Cancer Institute, or that his friends simply remember his quick wit, enthusiastic greetings and great joy in their friendship and fellowship. He loved them well and remembered them fondly, always.

Service arrangements provided by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC.