Martin Julia Jones

Julia Jones Martin, age 93, of Charlottesville, Va., departed this life on Saturday, June 24, 2017.She was born in Esmont, Va. on November 13, 1923, the daughter of the late Alfred and Mildred Jones. Her husband, John Martin Sr. preceded her in death. One son, Alfred Leroy Martin and a brother, Tom Jones also preceded her in death. She attended grade and High School in Esmont, Va. She received her LPN Certification from the first graduating class of LPN's from the University of Virginia. Her nursing career began at the University of Virginia, she later became a school nurse for the Charlottesville City Schools and retired as a Reading Specialist from the Charlottesville City Schools. Julia was a member of Mt. Zion First African Baptist Church where she was active on the Usher Board, Hospitality Club, the Building Committee, and Senior Ministry.She was also a member of NAACP; an active supporter of school integration during massive resistance; she was instrumental as a mother who allowed two of her sons to be among the first 12 African Americans to integrate the Charlottesville City Schools. She leaves to cherish her memory four sons, John Martin Jr. and wife, Patricia, of Richmond, Va., Donald E. Martin of Charlottesville, Kenneth A. Martin of Charlottesville, and David L. Martin of Gardena, Calif.; a daughter-in-law, Janice Martin of Charlottesville; 13 grandchildren; a number of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; a special daughter-in-law, Gloria Carter; and a host of nieces nephews and other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 1, 2017, at Mt. Zion First African Baptist Church with Dr. Alvin Edwards officiating. Interment will follow at Holly Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the services. J. F. Bell Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.jfbellfuneralservices.com.