General "GW" Washington Martin Jr.

GW was born on July 2, 1928, in Tampa, Florida, to General W. Martin Sr. and Minnie Glisson Martin. He graduated from Hillsborough High School and went on to serve his country in the United States Army as a Korean War veteran, earning a Combat Infantry Badge, Korean Service Medal with 1 Bronze Service Star, and a Purple Heart Medal.

Following his military service, GW began a long and dedicated career with Tampa Electric Company, where he worked for 39 years in a variety of fields. Over the course of his career, he worked as a lineman, appliance repairman, electrician, and in maintenance and repair at Big Bend Power Plant. He was a hardworking man who took pride in providing for his family and doing his work well.

Above all, GW had a deep and abiding faith in God. His love for the Lord was woven into every part of his life. He spent many hours studying God's Word and sharing his faith with others. He taught Sunday School classes, drove the church bus, and even had the honor of officiating at the funerals of some of his friends. His faith was not simply something he spoke about—it was something he lived.

GW also had a tremendous love for family. He treasured family gatherings and the time spent together making memories. He especially enjoyed playing basketball and tag football with his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends, and neighborhood children. His home and heart were places where family and friends could feel welcomed and loved.

And, of course, GW had a few other passions that brought him great joy: Gators football and good food. These were among the many simple pleasures he enjoyed throughout his life.

GW was first married to Esther Lyons, and together they had five children: Edward R. Martin (Sharon), Ron Martin (Virginia), Martha Jean Pangle (Donald), Judy Clayton, and Donna Swallow (James).

Later in life, GW met Betty R. Golden Thrasher, and they were married on July 3, 1974. Betty brought six children from a previous marriage into their family: James Thrasher (deceased), John Thrasher (Diana), Brenda Rogers (deceased), Tim Thrasher, Mark Thrasher, and Steven Thrasher (Jill). Betty was a beloved part of GW's life and went home to be with the Lord on April 3, 2022.

GW leaves behind his children and stepchildren, 24 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, several great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom carry memories of his love, his laughter, his strong values, and his devotion to God and family.

He was preceded in death by his four brothers, Corbett Martin, Melvin Martin, Lloyd Martin, and Donald Martin.

GW lived a long and full life, grounded in faith, family, hard work, and service to others. His greatest legacy is not only the years he lived, but the faith he shared, the values he taught, and the family he loved so dearly.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that GW's faith has become sight and that he is now home with the Lord. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 22nd at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park. 170 Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL. Friends may gather prior to the service starting at 10:30 AM.

A reception will follow the funeral service until 1:15 PM with burial to follow at Sarasota National Cemetery at 2:00 PM.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to the Douglas T. Jacobson State Veterans Nursing Home, 21281 Grayson Terrace, Port Charlotte, FL, 33954.