John E. Martin

It is with deep sorrow and profound gratitude for his life that we announce the passing of John E. Martin, 58 of Martinsville, who went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, July 19th, 2025, after a courageous 38-month battle with glioblastoma. He was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 11:30 AM in the Franciscan Hospital Emergency Room in Indianapolis.

From the moment of diagnosis, John faced each day with remarkable courage and determination. Throughout his journey, he showed unwavering strength, faith, and positivity, becoming a beacon of hope and resilience for everyone who knew him. His ability to find light in even the darkest moments inspired family, friends, coworkers and complete strangers.

Born on Saturday, February 18th, 1967, in Marion, Indiana, John lived a life filled with purpose and love. He was the oldest of three children and the only son born to the late John Luther and Roberta Joan (Tedder) Martin. He spent his younger years in Marion, Indiana, before his family moved to Janesville, Wisconsin, and eventually settled in Gadsden, Alabama, where he graduated with the class of 1985 from Southside High School. John left Alabama to attend Indiana University in 1985, where he earned a bachelor's degree from the Kelley School of Business in 1989. During his tenure at IU, he served 3 years as a student basketball manager under Coach Bobby Knight. He loved to share the excitement of being student manager of the 1987 NCAA Basketball Championship Team. His 4 years at Indiana University were packed with lifelong memories and unforgettable experiences, including perhaps his most valuable…. meeting his wife, Sherrie L. (Key) Martin while living in Bloomington. John and Sherrie were married on January 15th, 1994, sharing over 31 years of marriage, four beloved daughters and one cherished granddaughter.

An extraordinary "girl dad," John cherished his daughters with a love that was both fierce and tender. He poured his heart into guiding, supporting, and celebrating them, embodying the very best of what a father could be. His devotion to family was matched by his deep love for the Lord, whose presence he reflected in the way he lived his life. He was a natural mentor and encourager who touched countless lives with a rare gift of seeing the best in others. He radiated joy and purpose and was known for his contagious smile and infectious laugh that could light up any room.

John's life was a living testimony to selflessness-always putting the needs of others before his own and inspiring those around him to do the same. Even in passing, he gave the gift of vision through organ donation, a final act of love and compassion that speaks to who he was-a man who always thought of others first.

He had a notable career working as a pharmaceutical sales representative beginning in 1989 and continuing to work just months before his passing. He had spent the past 8 years working for Virbac Animal Health, after serving 18 years as senior territory manager for Intervet/Merck and beginning his career in pharmaceutical sales at ProVet. In addition to his pharmaceutical career, John had always wanted to be a radio broadcaster and took the opportunity to work as a part time 'on-air announcer' for WCBK…. Something he thoroughly enjoyed. He delighted in sharing news, sports, music and stories with his listeners.

He was a loyal member of Faith Church in Martinsville for over 25 years, serving as a trustee and elder. He served his church and the Lord with enthusiasm, always striving to lead others to know Jesus. He also served as Past President of the Martinsville Jr. Football League and was actively involved with the Lil' Arties Basketball program. He was also a member of the Martinsville Elks Lodge #1349 and the IHSAA. He was a registered referee and had officiated countless high school sporting events.

John is survived by his loving wife, Sherrie Martin of Martinsville; daughters, Kristen (husband, Nick) Ruddell of Martinsville, Taylor Martin of Martinsville, Madison Martin of Nashville, TN, and Mackenzie Martin of Martinsville(currently in college in Nashville, TN); granddaughter, Rilynn Ruddell of Martinsville; and two sisters, Angela Martin of Marion, IN, and Melissa (husband, Mike) Rockel of Crown Pointe, IN. He was anxiously awaiting the arrival of his second granddaughter in the fall of this year.

A celebration of John's life will be held on Friday, July 25th, 2025, at Faith Missionary Church, 1895 State Road 44 in Martinsville. Family and friends are invited to visit from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Pastor Matt Tucker will conduct a service celebrating John's life and legacy immediately following the visitation at the church.

The family is requesting that contributions be made in lieu of flowers to the Faith Church Children's Ministry & Youth Group in John's honor, continuing his legacy of giving and kindness. Memorial donations may be mailed to Faith Church, 1895 SR 44, Martinsville, IN, 46151 or to Neal & Summers Funeral Home, 110 E. Poston Rd., Martinsville, IN, 46151.

John's wishes for cremation have been honored by his family and Neal & Summers Funeral and Cremation Center has been entrusted to handle his final journey. Fond memories and condolences are encouraged to be shared with the family online at www.nealandsummers.com