James Earl Martin

Mr. James Earl Martin, age 86, of Blackshear passed away Saturday night (2/19/22) at his residence following an extended illness.

Born August 11, 1935 in Lincolnton, North Carolina, he was a son of the late Robert Earl and Shirley Heavner Martin.  He was raised in North Carolina and was a veteran, having served in the United States Army and the United States Air Force.  He moved to Jacksonville, Florida where he lived for 20 years and moved to Pierce County in 1984. He retired in 2003 as a blacksmith with CSX Railroad following 43 years of service.

He was of the Baptist faith.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Bruce Martin.

Survivors include his wife of almost 50 years, Wilda Chaney Martin of Blackshear; 3 children, Jeffrey Earl Martin (wife Amy) of Tickfaw, LA, Eric Martin (wife Emma) of Blackshear, and Tonya Cantrell (husband Ben) of Inman, S.C.; 4 grandchildren, A.J. Martin, Benton Cantrell, Landon Cantrell, and Ryland Cantrell; 3 brothers, Robert Earl Martin (wife Elaine) of Suwanee, GA, Mitchell Martin (wife Mary) of Orlando, FL, Thomas Martin (wife Edelene) of Asheville, N.C.; sister-in-law, Edith Martin of Lincolnton, N.C.; and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

A graveside funeral service will take place on Thursday morning (2/24/22) at 11 a.m. at the Blackshear City Cemetery with Rev. Clinton Kearney officiating.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday morning from 10-10:45 a.m. 

Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.hartfh.com.

Hart Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.