James Milton Martin

James Milton Martin

James (Jim) Milton Martin, age 90, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025 at his home in Maumelle AR. Jim was born on April 17, 1935 in Bee Branch AR. He grew up farming until, later, during middle school, he moved to Mabelvale, AR. His love of farming never left his heart and remained a part of his life as an adult.

He left Arkansas bound for the Navy, where he completed his first career. After 20 years, he retired in 1972 as a Master Chief Petty Officer who had served in both Korea and Vietnam. He earned many citations and medals in his service to our country. He met his wife, Masako, and had a son, Rex, during this time. He also developed a love of music and learned to play the guitar. He played and sang in a Country Rock band while stationed abroad.

After retirement, time was spent back in his home state in Camden, buying and clearing land for a motocross racetrack that later became a hog farm. To help with this endeavor, Jim was a police officer for 22 years and retired as a Lieutenant. He will be remembered for his service to the Camden community and caring for those in need. Among those in need were the many animals he adopted. There were always many dogs and cats around the farm that found a loving home.

Jim was an expert woodworker, mechanic, and welder. He crafted furniture in the Family home. He was also known to completely rebuild old tractors and hay balers, restoring them from the rust into working order. 

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Lillian Martin, and his sister Betty Sue Squires. He is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, Masako (Akita), his son Rex and daughter-in-law Kristie(Harwood) Martin of Springfield MO, Granddaughters, Blair Martin of Boston MA and Haley Martin of Chicago IL , sister Mary Lou Voss, brother Claud Martin, along with several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A visitation will be held Monday, November 24, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Smith Family Funeral Home, 8801 Knoedl Ct, Little Rock AR., followed by a Memorial Service at 10:30 AM. He will be laid to rest immediately after services at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery, 1501 W Maryland Ave, North Little Rock, AR.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Disabled Veterans Association, https://www.dav.org/.