Henry Earl Martin Jr.

Henry "Earl" Martin, Jr., age 94, passed away October 1, 2025, while under care at the Martha Franks Rehabilitation Center. Born June 22, 1931, in Virginia and was the son of the late Henry Earl Martin, Sr. and Rachel Woodard Martin. Mr. Martin is predeceased by his beloved wife, Audrey Wilson Martin of sixty-one years.

Earl graduated from Laurens High School in 1949, then served eight years with the Laurens County National Guard. He worked at Winn Dixie's Greenville Division for forty years before retiring, then spent seventeen years handling mail room and courier duties at The Palmetto Bank.

Earl had a passionate love for church, family, community and the Laurens County Lions Club. He was honored with "Lion of the Year" twice in two different chapters – Laurens and Summerville, South Carolina. And was always donating his time and service to many other organizations within the community. Before retiring, Earl was an active member of a Barbershop Quartet (SPEBSQSA), where his passion for music and camaraderie shined through. He sang with local quartets and was a dedicated participant in many community performances. He also cherished his involvement with the Martha Franks Singers. When the Martha Franks Retirement Community opened in 1985, Earl joined the first choir organized by Joe Greer and contributed to its growth and success. Over the years, the choir entertained audiences at musicals and conventions, spreading joy through their music to both listeners and fellow singers.

Earl was truly interested in how you were doing, always had a story to make you laugh, and looked at life as a "glass half full rather than half empty". His most cherished times were those spent with this family and friends. Left to cherish his memories along with the many good times had with all, he is survived by sons, Barry Martin of Laurens and Steve Martin of Greenville. One grandchild, Mandy Martin Woodard (Scott) and special mentions of Ana, Aly and Issabella.

And not to forget special friends and acquaintances - Marleen McCraney and Patty Reagin of the Hearthealth Institute; dear church family friends Linda Holley and Jerry Wright. Special thanks to Kelly Simmons Sheppard for being the family rock and her special friendship. He also loved and was loved by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025, 11:00 AM at First Baptist Church in Laurens conducted by Rev. Tim Marsh and Rev. Adair Rogers with burial to follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service.

The family will be at his home.

Memorials may be made to the Bobby Smith Class of First Baptist Church, 300 West Main Street, Laurens, South Carolina 29360.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.thekennedymortuary.com