William J. Martin

William J. Martin, 79, of Ephrata, passed away, in his home, Wednesday, July 10, 2024. Born in Washington, William was a son of the late Charles C. and Verna Ackley Martin. William was the loving husband to Sandra L. Marshall Martin for 56 years. He was a 1963 graduate of Trinity High School, and a graduate of Park College. William was a Navy veteran from 1963 to 1967, then joined the Air Force in 1971 until he retired as a TSGT in 1988. During his time in the Navy, he served on many ships including the USS Norton Sound and the USS Myles C. Fox. William served in the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1967. After the Navy, William met Sandy, and she went with him as he was stationed for the Air Force all over the world, including Charleston, S.C.; Okinawa, Japan; Hawaii; Rickenbacker, Ohio; Omaha, Nebr.; and the McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey, where he retired. When stationed in McGuire, William and Sandra vacationed in Lancaster County, and enjoyed it so much that they purchased property in East Earl and moved permanently in 2015 to Ephrata. William enjoyed fishing, family camping trips, board puzzles, crossword puzzles, and was an avid fan of Perry Mason. He was very involved in the New Egypt Church of the Nazarene as a lay minister, board member, and Sunday school teacher. William was known for his fun sense of humor, laid back personality, and willingness to lend a hand. His friendly and kind heart will be deeply missed by his family and friends. In addition to his wife, Bill is survived by his daughter, Stacey L. Martin of Ephrata; and son, Bryan J. Martin (Arrica) of Princeton, N.J.; seven grandchildren, Autumn M. Krause, Adriana Wheeler, Branden Martin, Brett Martin, Bryce Martin, Braeden Martin, and Alexandria Martin; a great-grandson, Oliver; a sister, Barbara Ann Martin of Washington; and many nieces and nephews, and extended family. In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by his siblings, Charles E. Martin, Shirley Hopkins, and Robert Martin. A viewing will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 12, in the Christian Fellowship Church, 758 Spruce Road, New Holland, PA 17557, where services will continue Saturday, July 13, with a viewing from 10 to 11 a.m., the time of a funeral service. William's final resting place will be Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville. In lieu of flowers, contributions are appreciated to the Wounded Warriors Project at www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org, or the Disabled American Veterans at www.help.dav.org.