Obituaries » Rabon D. Martin
Rabon D. Martin
Rabon Dalton “Ray” Martin, 76, of Roanoke passed away on Friday, July 22, 2022, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Ray was born in Person County, NC on January 21, 1946. A son of the late Minor C. Martin and Lena Mae Stuart Martin. In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his in laws, Chet and Virginia Starkey; Niece, Erin Martin, Nephew, Cooper Hollis; Brother-in-law, Frank Hollis; and sister-in-law Jinny Self.
Ray is a member of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Roanoke. He also served his country in the United States Air Force. He loved his Lord and Savior and his church and church family. He served as Deacon for many years. Ray was very proud of being a member of the Sappony American Indian Tribe. His love for baseball was so evident. He coached Little League for 30 plus years and coached baseball at North Cross Middle School and Hidden Valley Middle School.
Ray is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Jean Starkey Martin; daughter, Lisa Marie Martin (Alex); son, Stuart Lee Martin (Kristiana); Grandson, Chet Robert Martin; Sister, Ambra Hollis Renick (Wyatt); brothers, Bailey Martin (Donna) and Barry Martin (Suzan); brother-in-law, Gene Self; sister-in-law, Jane Starkey Werner (Chris). Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
For those wishing to make memorial contributions in Ray’s memory please consider Covenant Presbyterian Church or the American Heart Association.
A memorial service and celebration of Ray’s life will be conducted at 2:00 pm Saturday, July 30, 2022, at Covenant Presbyterian Church at 1831 Deyerle Road SW, Roanoke, VA 24018 with Rev. Dr. Kyle Allen officiating. There will be a reception to follow the service also at the church. To send condolences online please visit tharpfuneralhome.com. Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Roanoke is assisting the family.
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RIP old friend. Remembering so many good times together especially our beach trip. Jean, Lisa and Stuart our prayers are with you. JP & Shirley
Posted by JP Walrond on July 30, 2022
Ray was one of our favorite people to be around and talk with. We share many grat memories and we feel very saddened by his passing. Prayers of Jean, Lisa, Stuart and their families.
Posted by Rick & Karen Powell on July 29, 2022
Carla and I are so sorry to hear of the loss of a great man and friend to everyone who met Ray. We always admired Ray and Jean's commitment to the youth in our community through their support of little league baseball. John and Carla Cook
Posted by John Cook on July 27, 2022
I had the pleasure to work along side of Ray while we were with Spirit Sales Group. Nothing but a consummate gentleman who would go out of his way for his customers. I will miss his humor and camaraderie. My condolences to Jean and his family.
Posted by Bill Barker on July 25, 2022
I had the pleasure to work along side of Ray while we were with Spirit Sales Group. Nothing but a consummate gentleman who would go out of his way for his customers. I will miss his humor and camaraderie. My condolences to Jean and his family.
Posted by Bill Barker on July 25, 2022
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