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Harold Martin, 85
Harold Martin
Harold Martin

Longtime entrepreneur and businessman, Harold G. Martin passed from this life on Saturday, May 7, at St. Thomas West in Nashville following a short illness.

A McMinnville resident and Warren County native Harold was born on Feb. 20, 1937 and lived a fulfilling 85 years. Born the youngest of 10 to the late Sam and Ella Millraney Martin Sr., Harold grew up learning that hard work and dedication would prove successful to any endeavor he attempted. He dabbled in multiple business adventures such as bank president of Warren County bank, owner of multiple successful businesses and was a longtime real estate broker.

On Dec. 24, 1957, Harold married the love of his life, Claudia Perry Martin, who survives. They just recently celebrated 65 wonderful, loving years of marriage. From this marriage came two children, daughter Glenda Martin McBride and son Greg Martin, who has worked alongside his father for many years. Harold was also blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he loved dearly and held close to his heart. Sadly, Harold was preceded in death by the apple of his eye, his daughter Glenda. As a member of Arlington Church of Christ, Harold’s love of Christ and mankind was shown through his benevolent efforts. Most notably, he donated funds to build a church building in Guyana and supported new preachers to spread the Lord’s Word. He was always willing to give anyone a helping hand if needed.

In addition to his parents and daughter, he was preceded in death by sisters, Lorena Hillis, Edna Curtis, Jessie Gillentine, Gladys Walker and Willie May Martin, brother Woodrow Martin and brothers-in-law Kenneth "Buck" Perry and Douglas Martin.

He is survived by wife, Claudia, son Greg (Carla) Martin of McMinnville, son-in-law Lonnie (Janet) McBride of McMinnville, grandchildren Lonnette (Randy) Mullican, April (Bryan Murphy), Casey (Amber) Hertwig, Chancery (Matt) McColloch and Camerie (Ryan) Campbell, great-grandchildren Hunter (Hailey), Brooke (Eric), Hope (Isaiah), Layne, Josie, Perry, Willow, Hudson "Huddy," Collier "Collie," Toby, Riggs and Rhodes, two sisters Martha Martin of West Virginia and Juanita King of McMinnville,  brother Sam Martin Jr. of McMinnville, sister-in-law Carol Martin of McMinnville, brother-in-law Tex (Pam) Perry of McMinnville, and several nieces, nephews, other family members and friends also survive.

Funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at High’s Chapel with Wayne Cantrell officiating. Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory Cemetery in Warren County. Visitation will be Wednesday from 3 to 8 p.m., and Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at High’s.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels or the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.