Pat Martin

Mrs. Pat Huckabay Martin, a beacon of love and faith in the Rector community, passed away on June 8, 2024, at the age of 91. Known affectionately as Mrs. Pat, her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew her. Born on March 3, 1933, to the late Dewitt Milstred and Auda Mae French Huckabay, Mrs. Pat was a cherished sibling among nine, of which seven preceded her in death. She was also welcomed into Heaven by her two grandchildren: Tonya Martin and Blake Paige.
Mrs. Pat's journey through life was one of devotion and service. She was the loving wife of her late husband, Jim Martin, with whom she shared 61 beautiful years. Together, they built a family grounded in love and faith, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Mrs. Pat's memory will be lovingly carried on by her children: Jim and Deb Martin, Eddie and Jeanette Martin, Candy Martin, Gaye and Marty Phillips, and Jennifer and Earl Paige. Her brother, Don, and his wife Joyce Huckabay, also survive her, along with a lineage of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who were the light of her life: Chip and Lisa Martin, Keith Martin, Krista and Lance Hindman, Zachary Phillips, Jonathan and Haley Phillips, Benjamin Phillips, Samuel Phillips, Alexis Paige, Mackenzie Martin, Tara Martin, David Martin, Daniel Martin, Jacob Martin, Erica and Levi Jones, Blakelynn Phillips, Sadie Slaughter, Rylan Phelps, Waylon Poole, Luna Carey.
Mrs. Pat's nurturing heart extended beyond her family. She dedicated 36 years to educating young minds as an elementary teacher. Her passion for teaching was matched only by her commitment to her faith. Mrs. Pat held a bachelor's degree in education, which she used not only to instruct but to inspire countless students throughout her career.
A dedicated member of the Rector First General Baptist Church, Mrs. Pat found joy in teaching children about the love of Jesus. Her faith was the cornerstone of her existence, and she shared it with enthusiasm and grace. Her involvement in the church went beyond teaching; she was a pillar of the congregation for 72 years, known for her faith-filled presence and her ability to tell a compelling story that would captivate and encourage all who listened.
Mrs. Pat's interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. She had a talent for sewing, creating beautiful pieces that were as much a part of her as her kind words and warm embrace. Painting and poetry were also among her passions, allowing her to express her creativity and her view of the world in vibrant colors and thoughtful verses. Mrs. Pat's stories, often laced with humor and wisdom, will be remembered and retold, keeping her spirit alive in the hearts of those she leaves behind. She cherished time spent with the family gathered around the piano, singing and praising God.
Those who knew Mrs. Pat would describe her as a loving, faith-filled, and gentle soul. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness and the strength of a gentle heart. She was a friend to many, always ready with a kind word or a helping hand. Her special friend and caregiver, Debbie Faris, stood by her side, providing comfort and companionship through her final months.
Mrs. Pat Martin's legacy is one of love, service, and faith. It is a legacy that will continue to flourish through her family, her former students, and all the lives she touched. Her memory will be treasured, her lessons remembered, and her stories recounted with smiles and a deep sense of gratitude for the time we were blessed to have her among us. Mrs. Pat's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of kindness, compassion, and unwavering faith-a tapestry that will be cherished and held dear forevermore.
Visitation will be held on Monday June 10, 2024 from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Rector First General Baptist Church. Visitation will also be held on Tuesday June 11, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the church. A celebration of life will begin on Tuesday at 2:00 p.m. with Bro. Ken Price officiating. Interment will be at Woodland Heights Cemetery in Rector under the direction of Irby-Mitchell Funeral Home of Rector.
Those who wish may sign the online guestbook at www.irbyfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to the Rector First General Baptist Church Children's ministry.