Gene Martin Sr.

Gene was a steadfast servant of God and a dedicated family patriarch who left an indelible mark on all who were privileged to know him. On March 13, 2024, at the age of 70, Gene peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home. He was born in Elkhorn, West Virginia, on November 19, 1953, to Oscar and Earsline Edwards Martin. Gene was the tenth of fourteen children, the "baby boy", a nickname affectionately given to him by his brother Charles. Gene's life was guided by the principles of humility, hard work, and unwavering Christian beliefs.

His legacy is one of love, commitment, and faith. He was a loving father to his seven children and a pillar of strength for his family and loved ones. Gene's spirit can be seen and felt in each of his children. He had an entrepreneurial spirit, successfully owning multiple construction businesses. Notable achievements include his partnership in building the second Wendy’s restaurant in Columbus, Ohio, constructing the Ephesus Seventh Day Adventist Church, and rebuilding the VA memorial at the Dayton VA hospital after it was destroyed by vandals. Gene accomplished these feats with the support of his family and friends. His hobbies and talents included drawing, music, and reading. Gene was a man with a heart of gold and his most remarkable talent lay in being there for anyone he could and if he was unable to help, be assured he would be praying for you and soliciting everyone around him to also pray for you!

He tackled every challenge with determination and grace and his deep-rooted faith inspired everyone around him. Gene's kindness, generosity, and undeterred devotion to his loved ones will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. His gift for storytelling and his sense of humor were God's gifts to him. His large stature and warm heart always made one feel safe and protected. If Gene had it then, you had it too! He was known to discreetly put some money in your hand and a quick prayer in your heart.

Predeceased by his sons: Gene, II and Solomon; parents: Oscar and Earsiline Martin; sisters: Peggy, Francis, Sophia, Elizabeth and Patricia; brothers: Oscar, David, Harold, and William Thomas; grandchild Kamell; nephew: William Thomas Stubbs and special friend: Valerie Freeland, Gene is survived by his children: Dewan (Unique), Aishia (Adrian), Traci, Rochelle and Gerrod (Shalicia); grandchildren: Destiny, Harlem, Pablo, Jalen, Aiden, Naomi, Yoni, Avon, Gerrod Jr., Gene III, Gelani, Geniya, Paris, Pashia and Dac 'Shna; great-grandson. Gene S. Martin IV; siblings: Sam (Charmaine), Charles, Sr., Cordelia and Brenda (Robert), and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and friends. Special loved ones: Raimeca Fitzpatrick, Robert Whitner, Terehasa Lee Mchunganji, Dennis family, the Yarbrough, family. Cousins: Doug Edwards; nephews: Charles, II, Anthony Tinker, David McCalla, Sam, II and nieces: Sherita and Kivesta.

A service to honor Gene's life will be held at the Beacon of Hope Seventh Day Adventist Church, located at 2900 Winchester Pike, Columbus, Ohio 43232. The service, led by Pastor Charles Osborne III, will pay tribute to Gene's extraordinary journey, with a moving eulogy delivered by Pastor Charles Martin II, reflecting on the profound influence Gene had on so many lives.

Gene's passing is a poignant reminder of life's transient nature, yet we find comfort in the enduring memory of his spirit, which will continue to cultivate hope and love in the hearts of those he touched.

During this difficult time, you are in our thoughts and prayers. May the memories of Gene's legacy provide comfort and fortitude to all mourning his loss.