Gerald “Jerry” Martin died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Bradford on January 10. He was 93. Jerry was born May 4, 1930 in Newport, NH, where he grew up with his brothers, Jim and Donald. The three boys were the sons of Herbert and Harriet Martin, longtime proprietors of Martin’s Hardware.
Upon graduation from high school, Jerry spent a postgraduate year at Cushing Academy before becoming a Military Police Officer in the U.S. Air Force. Stationed throughout the world, Jerry was especially proud to be named Airman of the Month while in Michigan and often recalled his time spent in Morocco. After completing his service, Jerry returned to Newport and worked at his family’s hardware business.
Jerry met his wife, Jacquelyn Elliott Martin, at Mount Sunapee and the couple wed in 1959, upon which he moved to Bradford. He could barely keep up with her on the slopes, but in life they were married for 43 years, raising a son and a daughter.
Jerry will be fondly remembered for his years at Merrimack Farm and Country Store and at Henniker Farm and Garden where his whistling always filled the air. He also operated Martin Energy, delivering warmth and stories to people throughout the region.
Jerry is predeceased by his parents and brothers, his wife, and his daughter, Samantha Anne Martin.
Surviving family members include a number of beloved nieces and nephews, and his son Gerald Harris Martin, II and his partner Duncan S. Snitkin.
A Gathering of Remembrance will be held in the Friendship Room of the Bradford Community Church on Saturday, February 3 at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please whistle your favorite song or donate to Lake Sunapee Region VNA and Hospice by visiting lakesunapeevna.org/giving/donate.
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