Share
Let the family know you care by sharing this tribute.
Edwin Gray Martin, 62, of Salisbury, passed away on Friday March 11, 2016 at his home surrounded by family. Mr. Martin was born on November 6, 1953 in Statesville, NC to the late Donald Connell Martin and Etta Bynum Martin.
Edwin was a member of First United Methodist Church of China Grove and retired from the J. F. Hurley YMCA in Salisbury. Prior to his work at the YMCA he was employed with Food Lion for over 20 years and thoroughly enjoyed his time there. He was very active in the community having been involved with the Kiwanis Club of Salisbury, the Charles Johnson Y Service Club, Association of YMCA Professionals, and the Special Olympics of Rowan County. Edwin also served on the ARC Board of Rowan County and was a Basketball Coach with the Special Olympics of Rowan County.
Even through death, Edwin donated what was needed to McLean Hospital, a research affiliate of the Harvard School of Medicine, to research his disease of Cortico Basal Degeneration to help find a cure.
He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Deborah Cupit Martin; sons, John Christopher Martin and wife Kelly of Lewisville, Brian Nicholas Martin and wife Amy of Statesville, Justin ”Jay” Neal Martin and wife Amanda of Yadkinville, Patrick James Smith and wife Venise of Salisbury, and Benjamin Edward Smith of Salisbury; a sister, Wanda A. Martin of Statesville; grandchildren, Riley Martin, Ryder Martin, Raven Martin, Braylee Martin, Camden Martin, Ella Gray Martin, Ryan Turner and wife Amanda, Tabitha Smith, Hunter Deal, and Megan Deal; one great grandchild, Brantley Turner; and many cousins.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM on Sunday March 20, 2016 at the J. F. Hurley YMCA. A celebration of Life will begin at 5:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Rowan Hospice and Palliative Care (101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103) or to the J. F. Hurley YMCA (828 Jake Alexander Blvd., Salisbury, NC 28147).
The family would like to thank the entire staff of Rowan Hospice and Palliative Care and the Glenn A. Kiser Hospice House for their wonderful care during the last few months.
Carolina Cremation of Salisbury is serving the Martin family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Rich Penk says
May God comfort the family and be with them in their time or sorrow. Peace be with you Edwin.
Pat Williams says
To Wanda and family…..May God be with each of you during this difficult time.
Brenda Morris says
Please accept my sincere sympathy for you in your sorrow.
Barbara Loflin says
We were so sorry to hear of Edwin’s passing, we also admire your selfless caregiving of him. You are in our thoughts and prayers- Team Chaz, Relay for Life
Tamara Rouleau says
Nick, Amy, Ella and Family
I am so sorry to hear of your Dads passing, I can tell he was a great man and I see Ella has his middle name, what a great legacy for Ella. It is so hard to lose a parent, you will always miss him but you will always have the memories he gave you. Prayers for your entire family.
Amy says
Thinking of you Debbie and your family during this difficult time. Prayers for you all.
Mary Joyce-Hale says
Prayers going up for you all, God Bless you and keep and wrap his loving arms around you, sending much love and hugs!!
Linda and John Marshall says
Wanda, we are keeping you and your extended family in our prayers as you mourn the loss of Edwin. May you see a spark of him in his children and all those grands. Our siblings are such important parts of our lives and we share in your sadness.
May the peace of God surround you,
Linda and Johnny
Kenny and Debbie Martin says
Debbie, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ed was a very special man and he will be missed.
Melissa Campbell says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Jody Hood says
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Debbie.
Karen Wilkinson says
Prayers and much love for this precious family. I love you all and you will continue to remain in my thoughts and prayers. Debbie, I am holding you in my heart.
Karen Wilkinson
Jane Lackey says
Wanda and family,
So sorry for this loss. He was a remarkable man. Treasure your memories!
Jane Lackey
Ann Deyton says
Debbie and family,
My heart hurts for your loss but I know you all carry wonderful memories of Edwin as I do. Cherish each other as you cherished him. I know he will continue to watch over you all. God bless you through these tough days ahead and guide you to the future – carry Edwin with you always.
Mitzi Goodman says
We have great memories of Santa and Mrs. Claus. Thank you for all you did for us for our kids parties
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. May God give you comfort in the days ahead.
Much Love
Rowan County Rescue Squad Auxiliary
Al Pettit says
My deepest sympathy to Edwin’s family and friends. Although I have not seen him in many years, I have always thought of him as a good man and friend ever since we were classmates through the school years and neighbors. I hope the family finds peace and comfort and that Edwin rests peacefully. Until we meet again my friend.
Sally and Roger Nebosky says
Bless you my friend. Our prayer are with you and Edwin’s memory. Edwin was like my big brother and I will miss his sweet smile and tenderness. Deb, stay sweet and close to your friends. They will keep you strong.
Phil Kuykendall says
We had a lot of fun in our school years together. I’ll always remember you as the fun loving person and friend that you always were. My thoughts to his friends and family. Phil
Susan cashion says
Wanda and family…..I was so sorry to hear about Edwin passing away,,,,i knew him from high school and he was such a fun guy to be around….always laughing and smiling,,keeping you in my prayers,,,,