Howard Martin, 90, of Murphy, passed away Friday, Feb. 25, 2022, at the home of his daughter and son-in-law, Rose and Billy Noell.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served during the Korean War era.
After retiring, he owned and operated a produce stand on Joe Brown Highway, and was fondly known as “The Mountain Man.”
He was preceded in death by his parents, Winfield and Emma Martin; three brothers; four sisters; and his son, Alex Martin.
He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Martin of Murphy; a brother, Arnold (Helen) of Georgia; a sister, Cora McMahon of Lexington; and a nephew, Clifton (Nell) of Murphy. Also surviving are seven children: Judy (Bill) Frizzell, Debbie (Pog) Hennessee, Sandy (Rick) Beauchemin, Rose (Billy) Noell, Billy (Aimee) Martin, Chris (Ron) Morris, all residing in Sylva; and his son, David (Jocabed) Martin, who resides in Canton, N.C. Additional survivors include 26 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Howard enjoyed playing the guitar, mandolin, harmonica and the fiddle, playing mostly Johnny Cash songs. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, mowing grass, and whittling walking sticks or slingshots.
Howard’s celebration of life was held on his 90th birthday at the Unaka Community Center. A graveside ceremony, with military rites, will be held at the Ogreeta Cemetery with a family only attendance.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Ogreeta Baptist Church Cemetery Maintenance Fund, 10996 Joe Brown Highway, Murphy, NC 28906, which Howard supported.
Townson-Rose Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.
You may send tributes to the family at www.townson-rose.com.