James Matthew Martin

James Matthew Martin was born on September 15, 1955, in Columbus, Ohio to John W. Martin Sr. and Ida B. Martin unexpectedly passed away and gained his wings August 14, 2024. He was 68 years old.  

James was a high school football player at West High School and graduated from there in 1975.  

James served in the United States Navy for our country. He also was a long-time construction worker where he became a man of steel. Nothing could break James, not even a building. Even though James didn’t hesitate or bite his tongue for anyone, he was still a gentle giant. He loved to play chess and would challenge anyone to a game. If he lost, his opponent had to give him a rematch with no question asked. Since his retirement, James was active in his union with the Iron Workers Local 172 in Columbus, Ohio. 

 Preceded in death; his mother, Ida B. Martin; father, John W. Martin Sr.; brother, Rodney W. Martin; grandmothers, Hattie Mae Hairston, Alberta Martin; and grandfather’s, Matt Bailey, Jerry Martin; and step grandfather, Astrial Hairston.  

Survived by children, Tamika Moody (Lawrence), Charles “Weeder” Moody (Shannon), and Nia Hill (Kenyatta); sister, Sonja Martin; brothers, John W. Martin Jr. and Kenneth Martin; grandkids, Anthony, Antwan, Artigues Jr. “AJ”, Simone, Jordan, Kenyatta “KJ” and Jalen; great grandkids, Milan, Mason, Monte’ and Antwan Jr. and many nieces and nephews. 

 James was an avid Cleveland Brown fan and enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and great grandkids. He was a loving and caring father, papa, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He was always willing to go the extra mile and help whenever he could. James will forever be missed.