Gene William Martin

NEW BRITAIN

Gene William Martin, 89, of New Britain, CT, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2025 surrounded by family and loved ones. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend whose presence enriched all who knew him.

A lifetime resident of New Britain, CT, son of Helen Murray and William Martin, Gene built a life marked by dedication to family, hard work, and community. He joined the Marine Corps at age 17 and after returning from service married his beloved wife Joan and together they raised their four children while simultaneously completing his Bachelor of Science Degree in finance from University of Hartford.

In his professional life, Gene began his career in banking, being promoted to the Vice President level at the Burritt Mutual Savings Bank. Later in his career, he transitioned to Merchandising Manager with Bob's Furniture which had one store and he helped fuel their growth to over 100 stores, before retiring after 30 years of service at the age of 85.

There was nothing Gene enjoyed more than to make people laugh with his witty humor and spend time with his family - going to the beaches and lakes, picnicking, playing poker and racquetball, sharing stories, and making memories. He also treasured his friendships, was loyal, kind and always ready with a laugh or a helping hand. His warm smile, gentle demeanor, and genuine interest in others made him a pillar in his circle.

Gene is survived by his loving children: Linda Lawlor of Naples, FL, Steven Martin and his wife Trish of New London, CT, Glen Martin of New Britain, CT and Laura Martin and her partner Kenny Serbin of Navarre FL. Also, his grandchildren Michelle Martin and husband Dean, Kyle Martin, Matthew Martin and wife Khalen, Dan Tonna, Jacqueline Lawlor, Christine Carley and husband Shane, along with his great-grandchildren Christopher Martin, Grace and Shane Carley and a wide circle of relatives and friends who will deeply miss him. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Joan Eleanor Martin.

A memorial service to honor Gene's life will be held at New Britain Memorial-Sagarino Funeral Home, 444 Farmington Avenue, New Britain, CT 06053, Thursday, November 13th with Calling Hours 9 a.m. To 10 a.m. with a mass to follow at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 1755 Stanley Street, New Britain, CT 06053. Interment services will immediately follow with full military honors at St. Mary Cemetery 1141 Stanley St. New Britain.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor Gene & Joan's memory to consider a donation to the Connecticut Breast Health Initiative www.ctbhi.org or to share a story or memory with the family.

Gene's legacy of wit, kindness, loyalty, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Gene William Martin