Jerome Martin, Sr.'s Obituary
Jerome Martin Sr., age 63, of Memphis, Tennessee, departed this life on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at a local hospital. He was preceded in death by his father, Willie Martin; his mother, Willie McLaughlin Martin; sister, Cynthia McLaughlin. And his brothers Billy Martin and Michael Martin. Jerome leaves behind his devoted wife, Gloria “The Jewel” Martin of 39 yrs, and their four children: Ralph (Venita) Jones Jr., Camelia King, Melanie (Robert) Barker, and Jerome Martin Jr. He also leaves to cherish 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, his brother Bernard Martin, sister Pamela Martin, and a host of nieces, nephews, and countless friends.
He graduated from Booker T. Washington High School, where he received various awards for fitness and essay writing. As a teenager, he accepted Christ and began his journey of faith, attending Bountiful Blessings C.O.G.I.C under the leadership of the late Bishop J.O. Patterson.
Upon graduating high school, Jerome continued his education at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where he started attending Holy Temple C.O.G.I.C. and became a devoted member, serving for over 41 years. Jerome also served his country with honor in the United States Navy from 1985 to 1989.
Upon return, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management from Covenant College in 2002 and a Master of Arts in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technical University in 2005. Jerome’s professional life was dedicated to serving the Chattanooga community through his work at the City of Chattanooga Recreation Center, Arts and Culture Department, where he spent over 30 years. Known for his unwavering dedication, Jerome earned recognition for never calling in sick during his long tenure. He was a proud member of the Chattanooga community, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
In addition to his work, he was the author of a book entitled Marriage Until Death Do Us Part. He also served the Lord in many capacities within the church; he was a Sunday School teacher, New Members Facilitator, YPWW President, District AIM Chairman, youth president, and the founder of “Day of the Saints.” His ministry touched countless lives through Juvenile and Prison Ministry, Nursing Home Ministry, and College Campus Ministry. Jerome counseled married couples, prayed for the sick and the lost, and introduced countless individuals to Jesus Christ.
A man of devout faith, Jerome was a prayer warrior, an intercessor, and a bold soldier for Christ. He was a true friend, confidant, and brother to all he encountered. He was never an idle man. He was the epitome of being swift to hear and slow to speak. Jerome’s powerful teaching and dynamic preaching left an indelible mark on those who were fortunate enough to hear him speak. His legacy is one of unwavering faith, deep love for his family, and a tireless commitment to serving his community and the Lord. His unwavering commitment to service and his motto of doing everything was “whatever you find yourself doing in life, do it with all your heart soul and mind, especially for Christ." That was a beacon of inspiration. He was always actively working to uplift others in spirit and truth.
He will lie-in-state on Sunday, January 26th at 9 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. at Holy Temple Church of God In Christ. Burial will be Monday, January 27, 2025 @ 12:30 p.m. in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
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