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John Martin Obituary
John Dennis Martin, 47, of Fort Smith passed away Saturday, April 27, 2019, at a local hospital. He was born May 7, 1971, in Fort Smith to Dennis Martin and Gale (Bevilacqua) French. He was a graduate of Northside High School, attended Westark College and was a member of Grand Avenue Baptist Church. John possessed a kind and gentle spirit and he never met a stranger. His smile and personality made everyone love him instantly. Even through the toughest times, he kept that smile and concern for others. John loved his Dallas Cowboys and St. Louis Cardinals and was a huge fan of professional wrestling.
He was preceded in death by his father, Dennis Martin; his stepfather, Larry French; and his grandmother, Elnora Bevilacqua.
Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Thursday, May 2, 2019, at Grand Avenue Baptist Church with burial at Roselawn Cemetery. Visitation will following at the Activities Building in the College Room of Grand Avenue Baptist Church. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Ocker-Putman Funeral Home in Fort Smith.
Viewing will be 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
He is survived by his mother, Gale French of the home; his brother, Charles French and wife Jessica of Fort Smith; his stepmother, Jan Martin of Broken Arrow, Okla.; and his cousin, Sharon Evans of Greenwood.
Pallbearers will be Allan Pullen, Chris Wright, Les Lester, Brain Johnston, James Chesher and Richard Nixon.
Memorials may be made to Grand Avenue Baptist Church Helping Hands Ministry, 3900 Grand Ave., Fort Smith, AR 72904.
John was an inspiration to all who knew him and a true joy to be around. We will miss him but have comfort knowing he is home with his heavenly family and still smiling.
Online tributes may be made at www.ockerputmanfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Martin
Sponsored by Ocker-Putman Funeral Home - Fort Smith.
6 Entries
Joe Wasson
May 7, 2019
I'm saddened to hear that John lost his long battle with cancer. He gave gave it a good hard fight. Condolences & peace to Gail & Charles during this sad time.
Patricia Sebastion
May 1, 2019
Gale, my thoughts and prayers are with you and Charles. I am so sorry, always loved talking to John when I would run into him.
Kim Nichols
April 30, 2019
I am so terribly sorry for your loss. John will be missed by so many. He was an amazing guy. His quick wit and kind spirit made you instantly want to be part of his world. John truly embodied the love of Jesus. He was always ready to encourage anyone having a difficult time, even in his hardest days. It's wonderful to know that John is resting in the arms of Jesus and one day we will see each other again. Rest in love and peace, Little John. You were one of a kind!
Vickie Finch
April 29, 2019
John was a very dear family friend, a ray of sunshine to all and a smile that could light up the room. He will be missed by many. Prayers for the family.
Kristen Mack
April 29, 2019
So sorry to hear of Little John's passing. I worked with him at S&K many years ago in the mall and he was such a joy to be around. I really admired him and his positive attitude. Praying for you all.
Karen Berry (Murphy)
April 29, 2019
You are a sweet soul. You will be missed by many.
Family, please accept my condolences for your loss.
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Memorial Events
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May
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Viewing
8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Ocker-Putman Funeral Home - Fort Smith4500 Jenny Lind Rd, Fort Smith, AR 72901
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Ocker-Putman Funeral Home - Fort Smith4500 Jenny Lind Rd, Fort Smith, AR 72901
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