Jack White Martin, 91, of Dublin, Georgia, formerly of Fitzgerald, died Thursday, July 16, 2015, in Dublin, Georgia, with his family by his side. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 54 years: Anne Fussell Martin.
A memorial service will be held 4 PM, Saturday, July 18, 2015, at the Paulk Funeral Home Chapel in Fitzgerald, with the Rev. Thad Haygood and the Rev. Bob Williams, of Dublin United Methodist Church officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the chapel.
Mr. Martin was born October 29, 1923, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to the late Everett Waldo and Iola White Martin. As a small child, he moved with his family to Fitzgerald, where he was raised. He graduated from Fitzgerald High School in 1940 and then graduated from Georgia Tech in 1943, with a degree in mechanical engineering. After completing college, at the age of 19, he began his career working with Pratt & Whitney Aircraft Company in Hartford, Connecticut, drawing blueprints for aircraft engines. Mr. Martin served in the United States Marine Corp. during World War II. He attended Naval flight training in Pensacola, Florida and then continued training at Opa Locka Naval Air Station near Miami, Florida, where he flew the F4U Corsair. Following his military career, Mr. Martin moved back to Fitzgerald to take over his father’s business, Martin Manufacturing Company, later known as Martin Motors. Mr. Martin operated the business until 1983, when it was turned over to his son Jim Martin. He enjoyed flying with his father from the time he was 16 years old. This was a passion that stayed with him through his adult years. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club, Boy Scouts headmaster and other civic organizations. He was active in the Central United Methodist Church and St. Matthews Episcopal Church, holding several administrative positions.
He is survived by his sons: Father Joel Martin of Cullman, Alabama, Jim & Gail Martin of Fitzgerald and Jay & Robin Martin of Dublin; a daughter: Jennifer & Tripp Adams of Lawrenceville; grandchildren: Jennifer (Eric) Wyles, Jill (T.J.) Rowe, Eric Adams (fiancé - Bethany LaFoe), Sarah Anne Martin and two great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by a sister: Carolyn McDaniel.
The family suggests that those desiring to send memorial donations may send them to Serenity Hospice, 520 Hillcrest Parkway, Dublin, Georgia, or First United Methodist Church, 305 West Gaines Street, Dublin, Georgia, 31021