Lester Ray Martin

Lester Ray Martin, 89, of Abilene, TX, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2024. He was born on May 17, 1934, in Neboville, TN, to his loving parents, E.H. Martin and Cleora Brummette Martin.

 Ray dedicated his life to education, starting as a student himself. He successfully graduated from Pampa High School and later pursued higher education at McMurry College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in education. He used his knowledge and passion for teaching to positively impact countless lives as a dedicated teacher and coach in the Abilene community. After a long career, Ray retired in 1993.
 
Ray was a devoted family man, He was blessed with a loving wife, Dianne Martin, whom he married in 1970 in Greenville, TX. Together, they created a loving home with their children, Tammy Riggan and husband Donnie of Merkel, Randy Martin and wife Rose of Abilene, Stacy Anthony and husband Greg of Atlanta, TX, and Michael Martin of Ft. Worth.
 
Ray loved to spend time with his grandchildren, Sunny Moore and husband Lance, Nathan Riggan, Matt Riggan and wife Jacy, Hunter Martin, Hailey Martin, Keylee Watlington, Luke Anthony, and Aubrey Anthony. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Cameryn Moore, Gunner Moore, Chase Moore, Mack Moore, and Kendall Riggan.
 
Although Ray is no longer with us, his memory will be forever cherished by his loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Deon.
 
Ray’s life truly embodied the values of faith and community. He was a dedicated and active member of Aldersgate Methodist Church, where he loved to be with his church family. He enjoyed watching the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, wood working, bowling and anything that let him spend time with his family.
 
To honor and celebrate his life a visitation will be held on February 7, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Elmwood Funeral Home, 5750 Hwy 277 South. A funeral service will take place at the Elmwood Funeral Home Chapel on February 8, 2024, at 10:00 am. Ray will be laid to rest with military honors at The Texas State Veterans Cemetery on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 1:00 pm.
 
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Aldersgate Methodist Church, Hendrick Hospice Care or the United Methodist Center and Food Pantry in memory of Lester Ray Martin.
 
Ray will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to education, his love for his family, and his passion for supporting his community. His warm smile, kind heart, and lighthearted spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew him.