Ray Lee Martin

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ray Lee Martin, who left this world suddenly and unexpectedly on July 7, 2025, at the age of 74. Ray was born on November 11, 1950, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Ansil Lee Martin and Juanita Day Martin, both of whom preceded him in death.

Ray is survived by his beloved wife, Burla (Baker) Martin, whom he married on December 28, 1990, in Las Vegas, marking a beautiful journey together that spanned over 34 cherished years. He leaves behind a loving family, including his children, Lyle Ray Martin, Beronica Lynn Martin, and Brooke Elaine Martin. He is also survived by his siblings: brother Reggie Martin and his wife Sarah (deceased), sister Brenda Lewis and her husband Jimmy, and brother Leslie Martin and his wife Kim. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Ray proudly served two years in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era, a testament to his dedication and service to his country. After his military service, Ray began a long and fulfilling career with the Florida East Coast Railroad in Jacksonville, later transferring to the Association of American Railroads Transportation Technology Center in Colorado. He worked diligently as a carman and locomotive engineer until his retirement in 2008. Following retirement, Ray and Burla moved to Palatka, where he dedicated himself to caring for his wife and mother-in-law, showcasing his unwavering compassion and sense of duty. An avid tinkerer, Ray found joy in all things mechanical, particularly in fixing up used bicycles for children in need. His love for cars, motorcycles, and classic black-and-white television westerns revealed a playful spirit that endeared him to many. Known for his straightforward nature and genuine friendship, Ray was a caregiver at heart-not only to his family but also to his beloved fur babies, Izee and Annabelle. He was a big teddy bear at heart, nurturing and loving, always putting others' needs before his own.

Ray's Celebration of Life will be held on July 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM at 1475 Old Dixie Hwy, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life and the memories we shared. In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that donations be made to The Alzheimer's Disease Fund (https://www.alz-disease.org) to honor Ray's compassionate spirit and the love he had for those suffering from this disease. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shown their support through food, cards, and flowers during this di cult time. Your kindness has been a source of comfort as we navigate the loss of such a remarkable man. Ray Lee Martin will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.