Myrl A. Martin

MYRL ALDRICH MARTIN

22 March 1939 ? 26 November 2013

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, son and brother, Myrl A. Martin, of Snow Creek, is now in Heaven. Survived by his wife of 52 years, Nancy Williams Martin, daughter, Phyllis Ann Martin, his grandchildren, Westlee Martin, Lesley Ann Smith, William Stowe, and Kimberly Nicole Buruse, great-grandson, Nathaan Martin, grand-daughter in law, Tiffaney Delong Martin, and grandson in law, Jamey Smith, brother Burton Martin of Roanoke and sister Hannah Parks of Snow Creek, brother in law, Garnett (Hambone) Williams of Rocky Mount, sisters in law, Bonnie Glenn Martin of Roanoke, Irene Williams Hall of Fayetteville, NC and Laura Williams Young of Martinsville, nieces, nephews and cousins. He is preceded in death by his son, Stephen Martin, parents William L. and Ruth Beheler Martin, his brothers Buford Kenneth Martin, Deward Martin and sister, Verlie Martin Lawrence.

Born at home in the Snow Creek community of Franklin County, he grew up on the farm purchased by his grandfather, John William Martin. The family grew tobacco, vegetables, and farm animals. His mother, Ruth Martin, taught school in Franklin County for 40 years. As little boys, Myrl and Burton shared what they had and always remained close to each other. At 17, Myrl left home to join the US Navy following his brothers in military service. After returning home in 1960, he met Nancy Mae Williams. They married on May 6, 1961 and settled in Snow Creek. Myrl joined his father and sister, Hannah, to work on the farm and grow tobacco. He partnered with lifelong friend, Tony Plybon, to start a sawmill which employed other farmers and provided additional income during the off season. Myrl later purchased Tony?s part of the business and relocated the mill to the farm. He operated the mill with Johnny Martin for many years until he retired in 2008. Myrl raised beef cattle alongside friend, Ronald Walker. They often took cattle to market together and helped each other.

Active in the community, Myrl was a member of the Snow Creek Volunteer Fire Department and a charter member of the Snow Creek Volunteer Rescue Squad. He served as a deacon at Snow Creek Christian Church. He enjoyed his work and many hobbies, including bird hunting with friend, Junior Walker. He obtained a private pilot?s license and shared his plane with nephew, Brent Martin. He had many good times and enjoyed the friendships he made at Pace Airport in Ridgeway, VA.

Known for his dedication to family and neighbors, Myrl was there to help those in need. He never turned anyone away and deeply cared about the welfare of others. Above all, he lived for his family and cherished his grandchildren. Westlee, Lesley, William, Nicole, and baby Nathaan were Papa?s happiness. Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to Snow Creek Volunteer Rescue Squad or Fire Department. Memorial services will be conducted 2:00 p.m. Wednesday December 4, 2013 at Snow Creek Christian Church with Rev. Jim Compton officiating. Private Inurnment will follow in the Martin Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday prior to the service and also at the home following the burial. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.