Freddie (Fred) Martin

Freddie (Fred) Martin, 85 yrs old, of West Hamlin, WV passed away December 22, 2017, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Huntington, WV. He was a beloved husband , father, brother, uncle, and friend to many. Fred was the son of the late Robert and Garnet (Workman) Martin. He was preceded in death by brothers Denver (Kathleen) Martin, Quentin, and Colby Martin, sister, Mavis (Hayes) Ellis, and step grandson, Jordan Holland. Surviving are siblings “My Brother” Allen (Joyce )Martin of West Hamlin; Phyllis (Richard) Adkins of Pleasant View; and Carole (Mike) Bates of West Hamlin; and sister-in-law Mary Jane Martin. He is survived by wife, Donna Smith Martin and children Freddie (Cheryl) Martin of Livermore, CA; Kim (John) Kelly of Huntington, WV; Kristi (Jason) Tully of Hamlin, WV; Jesse Ben (Raeda) Scites of Port Deposit, MD; and grandchildren Haley & Alex Martin, John David Kelly, and Megan & Jayse Tully. He also leaves behind a host of nephews and nieces and other family members. Fred was born March 13, 1932, on Bryan Ridge in Harts, Lincoln County, WV, and as a youth resided on Peyton Branch and Rt. 10 near Pleasant View. He completed his Primer-eight grade education at Smith Grade School at Sheridan and grades 9-12 at Guyan Valley High School. He then graduated from Coyne Electrical School in Chicago, Illinois. He and his brothers worked with his father in the timber business throughout his youth. He then worked as an electrician at Island Creek Coal Company. He enlisted in the US Air Force in 1952. He served as a staff sergeant and flight engineer in Europe from 1953-1956 and fondly remembered his military service. Returning home, he worked various businesses, including C&P Telephone from 1957-1960, and Continental Telephone from 1970-1980. He drove for Chemical Tank Lines for 10 years. Fred and his brother Allen operated their own construction business, Martin Brothers Supply during the 1980’s/90’s; they donated many hours of work for various community projects. During retirement, Fred enjoyed socializing with friends and family and is remembered as one who loved a good laugh and enjoyed bringing a smile to others. He was solver of puzzles, a fixer of “things”, and a clear, concise thinker. He was an avid Democrat, a Marshall fan, and a lover of old time fiddle playing. He vividly remembered the past 60 years of political history and enjoyed discussion of such. His absence leaves those left behind with a broken heart. A memorial service will be announced at a later date (March/April 2018). McGhee-Handley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Condolences can be left at www.handleyfh.com