Ronald Coleman Martin, age 75, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2019, at Lower Cape Fear Hospice in Bolivia, NC. He was born July 6, 1943, in Laurinburg, NC to Coleman Archie and Paula Wyrick Martin. Ron is survived by his wife Debbie (Cook) and stepdaughter Lisa, as well as his first wife Deborah (Evans) and their children Kevin Martin (Diana) and Lauren St. Clair (Phillip). He is also survived by one sibling whom he loved dearly – Melba Hughes of Marietta, Georgia, her daughter Paula, and two adoring grandsons.
Ron was a 1961 graduate of Laurinburg (NC) High School where he played sports and participated in band. After serving 4 years in the U.S. Coast Guard in New York City, he married and started a family in South Carolina. He worked as a chef in restaurants, in delivery for food companies, and eventually 26 years for the US Post Office. He was part of the original overnight mail service known as “Special Delivery”, and held numerous positions including Postmaster during his career. Ron continued to serve his country by serving 10 years in the U.S. Army Reserve as well. He was always very hard working, but found time to volunteer in youth sports, restore vintage cars, spend time at the beach, and devotedly support his Atlanta Braves. Everyone will remember Ron for his quick wit, his endearing laugh, and superb sense of humor. He loved good comedy and could always be counted on to lighten the mood in any situation.
At his request, his ashes will be scattered at sea off the coast of North Carolina. Family, friends, and others whose lives Ron touched will be invited to join a celebration of his life in August 2019. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Alzheimer’s Association of America, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601. www.alz.org
3 Comments
So many childhood memories flood back with this great and funny man! Lauren and Kevin please know I am thinking of you and praying as you mourn the loss of your dad. I will never fiorget him. He loved you both so much!
Ronnie was a high school classmate whom I remember fondly. I shared some time with him in the high school band as well as in classes and at social activities within our group of friends. He was such a cute, sweet guy who was friendly with everyone — all the time — and had a contagious smile that never faded. Although I have not seen him in many years, his death saddens me as another piece of my childhood is now passed away. My heartfelt condolences to his wife, Debbie, who so graciously gave me permission to share news with classmates when Ronnie entered hospice care, and also to Kevin, Laura, Lisa, Melba, and Deborah (Evans).
I was sad to hear that another classmate of 1961 has passed away. I remember how nice looking he was as well as being a nice person. Sad once we graduate we lose sight of one another.
My prayers go out to his family.
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