Martin Gary Waters

Martin Gary Waters

May 10, 1952 - November 6, 2025

Martin Gary Waters, 73, of Georgetown, Texas, entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, after a life marked by devotion, service, and steadfast faith.

Born on May 10, 1952, in Artesia, New Mexico, Martin was the beloved middle son of Granville Edward "GranGran" Waters and Frances "GranFran" Gary Waters. He grew up in Lubbock, Midland, and Houston, Texas, where he developed a lifelong love of sports and a creative flair for art. He graduated from Westchester High School in Houston in 1970 and went on to earn a degree from Texas Tech University in 1974.

It was at Texas Tech that Martin's life changed forever. During his sophomore year, he asked his sister, Melanie, to introduce him to a Christian young woman--enter Kathy O'Donnell. Their first date was to the Texas Tech vs. Oklahoma State football game in October 1972, and though Kathy needed some convincing, Martin's presence and heartfelt pursuit won her over. He first proposed after three weeks of knowing each other in tears and on his knees. After six weeks of building a relationship, he proposed again! Waiting two additional years, Kathy finally said "yes," and they were married in Houston in May 1975--a love story that endured for over fifty years.

Martin began his banking career in Dallas and later moved his young family to Lubbock, where he served for more than 30 years with American State Bank. He was deeply engaged in his community, serving as president of the Downtown Kiwanis Club, leading United Way campaigns, participating in Leadership Lubbock, and serving as president of the Caprock Local Development Company (later Caprock Finance Company). A faithful servant-leader, Martin also served as an elder at Melonie Park Church in Lubbock.

In 2008, Martin and Kelly relocated to Colorado, living in Greeley and Windsor, where they continued a remarkable hospitality ministry. For over 35 years, they opened their home to missionaries and pastors from around the world--offering them care, rest, and encouragement.

In 2016, Martin accepted the call to the mission field with Christ Community Church in Greeley, joining a teaching and prayer team with Network Beyond. Though teaching was outside his comfort zone, his humble heart for service led him to minister in Peru, Ecuador, Mexico, Colombia, and Egypt. These trips deepened his faith and joy in the Lord.

Martin is survived by his devoted wife, Kathy O'Donnell Waters; his son Andrew Thomas Waters of Dallas, Texas, and grandsons Westin Granville and Reid Palmer; his daughter Emily Waters Tardy and husband Daniel of Franklin, Tennessee, and granddaughters Savannah Lynn and Emma Grace; his son Michael Gary Waters and his wife Erika of Liberty Hill, Texas, and grandsons Cole Michael and Jack Collin.

He is also survived by his brother Howard Charles Waters (Debbie) and their children Granville III, Trevor, Millie Jo, and Kimberly; and by his sister Melanie Waters Neal and her children Robert, Ginger, and Holly. He was also blessed with fourteen great-nieces and nephews and three Waters cousins--Paul, Ben, and Leslie.

Martin was deeply loved by the extended O'Donnell family, where he served joyfully as a brother-in-law, uncle, and cousin.

Having accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1972, Martin lived out his faith daily through quiet integrity, steady leadership, and deep compassion. His life reflected a love of God, family, and community that touched all who knew him.

To honor Martin's legacy of service and devotion to the Lord he loved, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to the Memorial Fund at Grace Bible Church in Georgetown, Texas.