Martin Blair Willingham

Martin Blair Willingham, 77, of Greenwood, beloved husband of Anne Simpson Willingham, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Hospice House of Laurens County.

Born August 6, 1948, in Greenwood, he was a son of the late Robert A. and Martha Kathleen Hamilton Willingham. A proud veteran, Blair served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Traverse County. He was a 1966 graduate of Greenwood High School and went on to earn his degree from Lander College. Blair dedicated over 30 years of his career to Lander University before retiring.

He was a member of Tranquil United Methodist Church, where he served as a former youth leader and Sunday school treasurer. He was also a founding member of the Stillwell Sunday School Class.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Anne; two daughters, Amy Willingham Driggers (Brent) and Ashley Willingham Turner (Jason), both of Spartanburg; six grandchildren, Graham and Beckett Driggers, and Reagan, Corley, Cooper, and Ren Turner; one brother, Doug Willingham (Pam) of Enoree; and one sister, Robin Thompson of Beaufort. Additionally, he is survived by special in-laws, Debbie Willingham, Kay Willingham, Margaret Simpson, Jack and Cheryl Simpson, Cyndie and Tommy Bryan, and Jane and Chuck Hall, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by three brothers: Andy, Dale, and Phillip Willingham.

A memorial service will be held at Tranquil United Methodist Church (Greenwood, SC) on Wednesday, August 27th, with Rev. John Bolin and Rev. Luke Mims officiating. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 1:30 pm with the service to follow at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Tranquil United Methodist Church, 1702 McCormick Highway, Greenwood, SC 29646 or to Hospice of Laurens County, c/o VIA Health Partners, 1304 Springdale Dr., Clinton, SC 29325.

Blyth Funeral Home & Cremation Services is assisting the Willingham family.