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JOHNSON MARTIN Ph.D.
1939 - 2017
JOHNSON MARTIN Ph.D.
1939 - 2017
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1939
DIED
2017
JOHNSON MARTIN Obituary
JOHNSON, Ph.D.
Unexpectedly on Friday, January 6, 2017, age 77, of Squirrel Hill. Loving husband of Sally Martin; father of Kelly Martin (husband Michael Altman) and Alexander "Zandy" Martin; grandfather of Mia Altman; brother of twin Lillian Eady, Joan Martin, Ronald Martin and the late Jimmy and Jean Martin; also survived by nieces and nephews. He was born on November 11, 1939, in Philadelphia and moved to Pittsburgh in the early 1970's. John was a longtime educator and believed that with education any child could map a future. As a teacher at Falk School, a Principal at Homewood Montessori, and the Director of Career Development for Pittsburgh Public Schools, he truly loved working with his students. He was a sports enthusiast and voracious reader who enjoyed classical music, laughing at the Marx brothers, watching Westerns and singing to his granddaughter. Friends received at McCABE BROS., INC. FUNERAL HOME, www.mccabebrothers.com, 6214 Walnut Street, Shadyside, on Saturday, January 14, 2017, from 11:30 a.m. until time of service at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to UNICEF. www. unicefusa.org/help/donate.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kate Bowers
January 9, 2024
Still remembering you Dr. M. and all our work done together, our fun chats, and your never ending and much appreciated stories of your family, especially your kids. You are missed.
Eric Pearson
September 29, 2020
I am deeply saddened to learn of Dr. Martin's passing. He was my teacher at Falk school and the first true mentor outside my household that I remember.
I was reminded of him today, telling a story about how young people make decisions on how they'll approach their education, what they believe about who they are as a learner and person, and what impact teachers and mentors have on shaping that. Dr. Martin was tough on me, but he made me care about doing my best work and helped me understand that learning an active process that lasts a lifetime. He made me proud to accomplish things that were hard for me at young age, and he perhaps most importantly helped me believe that I could do it.
He also gave me my first tennis racquet and a giant garbage bag of balls and encouraged me to play. I am grateful to have known him and sad I never got to thank him in person for all he meant to me, but I know in my heart that he's on that great tennis court beyond rounding up another bag of balls for the next person who might need them.
Kate Bowers
January 4, 2020
Sally, Kelly, and, Zandy, the anniversary reminder popped up here for me just as I was reading and writing about the terrible fires in Australia. I feel like this was no coincidence and that Dr. M. very much continues to watch over all those he loved and cared for and is as concerned as anyone that Australia is relieved soon from this terrible situation. I miss my dear friend and still think of him often, his laughter and advice always close at hand. And Ill never forget how much he loved all of you and how proud he was of each of you in all your highs and lows. He practically floated when speaking of you. Sending much love to all of you on the anniversary of Dr. M.s transition. Life is for the living, as my former neighbor Betty Norton once advised. Heres to a wonderful and lively year ahead that includes all the best of John that resides and lives on within each of you in everything you do. What a gift to bring to the world. Love you much. ❤❤❤ Many prayers and love for Australia. ❤❤❤
Adam
January 11, 2018
I was a student at Homewood Montessori when Dr. Martin was principal. He cared about every student and treated them all as their own unique person. He was stern but always kept a sense of humor - one time when I was in his office for misbehaving (I was in there a lot) I received a copy of "Crime and Punishment" and was told I could leave when I finished it. I wish more teachers and leaders in the school system helped shape kids the way he did.
Thank you Dr. Martin :)
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grace clark
September 22, 2017
Mr. Martin was a lovely teacher at Falk.
Pat Ellis
May 17, 2017
To the Alexander Family,
Just to extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family, and to let you know we are thinking about you. May you be comforted about all of the many people sharing stories of what a great person he was. Bless You
Pat Ellis y
January 20, 2017
My condolences to the family.
Trish Bradley, Ed.D
Ellie & Don Sero-Martello
January 14, 2017
Dearest John Martin Family
As Long Time neighbors & friends of John, Sally, Kelly & Alexander at Beacon Court (Kamin Cottages), we share your grief & sadness. We are here for you for whatever support that you need.
Janice Matthew
January 14, 2017
To the Family of Dr. Martin:
I knew Johnson through our work at Pittsburgh Public Schools. What a wonderful, caring person! I will be forever grateful to him for our discussions and the sharing and debating of issues on Gifted Education that included how we identify our children and the types of gifted services that are delivered. I learned at least one new word every single time I talked with him as just another way he challenged and stimulated intellectual thought!
With fond memories that will last the rest of my life, Jan Matthew
January 13, 2017
Dr. Martin was the principal at Homewood Montessori where my two sons spent their elementary school years. It was a special environment because of him. He cared about every child. My sons, who are now 23 and 27, remember him asking what they were reading, being tough when he needed to be and always present. When we would see him in Squirrel Hill after he retired, he stopped to talk to my sons, asked about their lives and always told me to be sweet at our parting.
Our deepest sympathy to you. We hope you can find comfort in knowing that Dr. Martin made a difference in the lives of so many children.
The Werner-Rutkowski Family
Kirsten Partanen
January 12, 2017
Dear Sally, Kelly, Alexander and family,
Back in September of 1974, an extremely shy and sensitive girl at Falk School met the tallest teacher that she had ever met in her life (and she was not a short 2nd grader herself). Whereas many teachers were put off by this little girl who would burst into tears if you looked at her, her beloved Mr. Martin somehow found a way of helping her express herself even through tears. As you may have guessed, I was that girl. As the 42 years have passed, the specific memories of 2nd grade fade, but I am left with an impression of a man whose heart was even bigger than his height. Indeed, the person who I am now was molded by Dr. Johnson Martin.
When Barack Obama became president 8 years ago, I would regularly have my other tall African-American hero come to mind. I am very seldom in Pittsburgh these days, but had always thought Next time I must look up Dr. Martin. I guess that will now wait until the Great Classroom Beyond.
In the years since my life was so touched by Dr. Martin, I have worked all of my career with children either teaching or, as now, in the Ottawa Public Library. Wherever I go I am a teacher and a lifelong learner. How could I be anything else having had such a wonderful example of both, all those years ago.
It will be hard for each of you to go on with life without the magnificent presence that Johnson Martin was, but he would be the first to let you know that You've got this. My love and prayers to all.
Kirsten Partanen
Kirsten Partanen
January 12, 2017
Photo attached:
Dr. (then Mr.) Martin's 1 and 2 Grade class.
Falk School 1973-74
I am fourth from left, brown pinafore and 70s collar! So much polyester in one photo. Dr. Martin, a man of fashion, looked great in pink even before it was a thing for men.
Kirsten Partanen
January 12, 2017
Dear Sally, Kelly, Alexander and family,
Back in September of 1974, an extremely shy and sensitive girl at Falk School met the tallest teacher that she had ever met in her life (and she was not a short 2nd grader herself). Whereas many teachers were put off by this little girl who would burst into tears if you looked at her, her beloved Mr. Martin somehow found a way of helping her express herself even through tears. As you may have guessed, I was that girl. As the 42 years have passed, the specific memories of 2nd grade fade, but I am left with an impression of a man whose heart was even bigger than his height. Indeed, the person who I am now was molded by Dr. Johnson Martin.
When Barack Obama became president 8 years ago, I would regularly have my other tall African-American hero come to mind. I am very seldom in Pittsburgh these days, but had always thought Next time I must look up Dr. Martin. I guess that will now wait until the Great Classroom Beyond.
In the years since my life was so touched by Dr. Martin, I have worked all of my career with children either teaching or, as now, in the Ottawa Public Library. Wherever I go I am a teacher and a lifelong learner. How could I be anything else having had such a wonderful example of both, all those years ago.
It will be hard for each of you to go on with life without the magnificent presence that Johnson Martin was, but he would be the first to let you know that You've got this. My love and prayers to all.
Kirsten Partanen
January 12, 2017
Our deepest sympathy on the passing of John, who combined commitment to the marginalized, particularly amongst our youth, a formidable, critical mind with no patience for shibboleths and dissimulation, an inexhaustible zest for life, and unfeigned amiability to a unique, unforgettable extent. Although he has departed this world, his enormously positive legacy will resonate for decades to come.
Barry & Mary Ann Fulks
Marilyn
January 11, 2017
My deepest and most sincere sympathies are extended to the family at this most difficult time. Include myself as one of so many who will be praying for the members of the family.
Marlyn Barnett Waters
JOanne and Arnold Miller
January 11, 2017
We first met John over 40 years ago when our oldest son was his student at Falk School. We were fortunate to have him as a teacher to all of our children. He left a lasting impact on them an us.
Through the years we have stayed in touch and just recently had a very long and pleasant conversation with him at the JCC.
John had a special gift to reach children and leave a lasting impact on them. This gentle giant made his presence felt and did not suffer fools gladly. Yet there was a compassion and respect for others that was always evident and rare.
Our thoughts are with Sally and his family. If one lives as long as they are remember, John's will live for an eternity.
Fred Logan
January 11, 2017
Dr. Johnson Martin must also be remembered and acknowledged for his persistent and constructive criticism along with his invaluable proposals to improve the quality of education in the Pittsburgh public school system.
Judith Rothbart Kline
January 11, 2017
Dr. Martin was a deep thinker with a beautiful soul. When he was my principal, he used to recite poetry to the children. We shared a love of the poem, Annabel Lee. I will miss him very much. My condolences go out to Sally and his children.
Deborah Frey
January 11, 2017
My sincerest condolences go to Dr. Martin's family. He truly left such a legacy on so many students he taught and one that I have never forgotten. I still have a clown drawing of his framed in my childhood room in Pittsburgh. As the mother of a third grader, I now realize how truly remarkable it was to learn the poetry and writings of Langston Hughes and how to write in Calligraphy with proper ink wells and pens all in the third grade. It was with Dr. Martin that my love for learning took off and I have never looked back. One of the true greats. May peace be with you.
Ken Screven
January 10, 2017
I'm so sad to learn of the death of my first cousin ..whom the family called 'Junior'. Although we had not seen each other in many years, we spoke on the phone just a few months ago and he was warm and encouraging. Junior told me lovely stories of watching my father Earl Screven Sr court my mother Carrie Mae Smith..his mother Lily's sister...when Junior was a little boy. It was a recollection I had not heard before. My sympathies to Kelly, Sally and Zandy. May he Rest In Peace.
Martha Berdnik
January 10, 2017
Our heartfelt sympathy to Sally, Kelly, and Zandy for the loss of your beloved husband and father. We remember Johnston fondly as a friend and an excellent educator. Our prayers are with you.
Martha and Carl Berdnik
January 10, 2017
It is with much sadness that I type this message. Johnston was a former colleague whom I spent much time discussing what should and should not be done with educating America's children. I will miss his mischievous smile (as though he knew something that the rest of us didn't and he probably did ). May God surround your family with a peace that surpasses all understanding.
LaVerne Anthony
Kate Bowers
January 10, 2017
My dearest Sally, I just learned of Dr. M's passing. He was so dear to me, as you know, a great friend and defender who I so loved. Every conversation of ours, no matter how ferocious, ended with both of us laughing uproariously together. And not a single exchange ever ended--no matter how brief--without mention of "my Sally" or Kelly or Zandy or his glorious dog or his secret obsession with mopping floors. He loved you all so very much and was so hugely proud. So many stories and hilarity, but also very great tenderness and compassion and above all great commitment to excellence and truth. The time and detailed care John gave to his work--even when others would have been happy to receive less from him, even when it was done for no pay and few thanks and often done in spite of his own personal suffering --is a shining example of what it means to truly profess what one believes. I will miss Dr M very much and will remember him well. It was a great gift to have spent the time I did with him. He was a wonderful man who always stood within his personal integrity and who was very loved. May perpetual light shine upon him. All love surround you and your family always. Thinking of you all and smiling as I remember the many, many stories he shared highlighting his brilliant kids and his most beloved Sally. Love you all so much. If you need anything at all, please do not hesitate to let me know. John will always be part of my heart, as will you.
isabel alcoff
January 10, 2017
omg, I am so sad. Sending sincerest condolences to Sally, Kelly and Zandy at this most difficult time. What a dedicated teacher and friend he was.
Hope Anne Nathan
January 10, 2017
Hope Anne Nathan
January 10, 2017
Susan and Clive Hirsch and Family
January 10, 2017
Dear Sally and children,
I was so sadden to learn of John's passing. We first met when we lived in that little courtyard on Beacon Street. John and I had many discussions about our "old neighborhood" in Philadelphia; we both hailed from Strawberry Mansion). John was an amazing man. My family remembers fondly how John came to our son Judah's Bar Mitzvah (even though the wind chills were well below zero that very chilly Saturday morning). He shaped and influenced the lives of many young people (our son included).
May his memory always be a blessing to your entire family.
With a heavy heart,
Susan & Clive (Yechiel) Hirsch and Family
Marcia Crews
January 10, 2017
To the family of Dr. Martin,
It is with deepest sympathy, that I am hearing about this loss. After having had an unsuccessful placement for my student teaching, Dr. Martin was gracious enough to accept me at his school where I worked with Phyllis Soroczak. He was a wonderful educator.
Mrs. Rose Williamson, a para at Homewood Montessori, also sends her deepest sympathy as well.
David Weinstein
January 10, 2017
Such a nice man, I enjoyed talking tennis with him at the JCC- my heartfelt condolences to a Sally and family.
Dorothy Gold
January 10, 2017
I was visiting my Sunday in Boston recently and we were just talking about how mr. Martin had such an influence on days during his 4th grade. Mr. Martin was concerned because Dave would continually investigate more and more to find answers in the encyclopedia. But now, that is one of Dave's gifts. Mr. Martin had a huge influence on Dave and on the are the rest of our family and I'm grateful to have known him.
David Gold
January 10, 2017
In 4th grade on Martin Luther King Day, Mr. Martin (this was before his doctorate) played us the "I have a Dream" speech. And to illustrate how anyone can do something if they put their mind to it, he drew a peacock.
I asked for it, framed it, and think of him often when I see it. He was a role model to me, and I'm certain many others as well.
Please accept my condolences for a life well lived.
Jan Moller
January 10, 2017
Dr. Martin was a truly great man who had a profound impact on my life. When my family moved to Pittsburgh in 1978 from Sweden, I knew hardly any English. Still, I was placed in Dr. Martin's 4th grade classroom at Falk School. There he showed incredible patience and understanding as I adjusted to this strange new reality. To help me learn, he recorded cassette tapes that taught me key words and phrases, that I would listen to constantly after school until one day it all started making sense. His love for his students - and for learning - was obvious to anyone who had the fortune to sit in his class. He was a teacher who shared his knowledge but also his experience, and was the first person who taught me about the Civil Rights movement. I regret not doing more to stay in touch, but I can still hear his words in my ear almost 40 years later - an experience I'm sure that many others can recall.
Rest in peace, Dr. Martin. And thank you.
c t
January 10, 2017
May the God of comfort be with the family during this time. 1Thessaloiaans4:14
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