Edward Ray Martin

Mr. Edward Ray Martin, age 71 of Cleveland, Georgia, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2014 at home surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous battle with cancer.




Graveside services are scheduled for 2:00 pm Thursday, February 27, 2014 at Memorial Park Cemetery. The Reverend John Wood will officiate. The family will receive friends from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Wednesday, February 26, 2014, at the funeral home.




Mr. Martin was born in March 12, 1942 in Cleveland, Georgia, the son of the late Sid Martin and Ellen (Brice) Martin. He served in the United States Army. He retired after 40 years, from ER Snell Road Construction and was a member at Lanier Hills Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 40 years, Jackie (Taylor) Martin; and a brother, Hugh Martin.




Ray loved and enjoyed his grandchildren immensely. His wisdom and strength was an inspiration to all that knew him. He had an extended family of friends, who meant the world to him at Glenda's Restaurant in Cleveland. His daughters could not have ever asked for a more loving father. He will be missed by all!




Ray is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Wanda and Boyd Harness of Jefferson; Rhonda and Dave Johnson of Dawsonville; grandsons, William Sheaffer Sorrells of Augusta; Spencer Martin Sorrells of Gainesville; Martin Jay Johnson of Dawsonville; Sydney Troy Davis of Dawsonville; Caleb Harness of Jefferson son-in-law, Steve Sorrells of Gainesville; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Royce and Louise Martin of Cleveland; Rev. and Mrs. Loyd and AL Jean Martin of Cleveland; Mr. and Mrs. Harlen and Regina Martin of Hartwell; sister and brother-in-law, Mrs. Joyce Ann Pilgrim and husband, Lowell of Cleveland; sister; Evelyn Pardue of Syracuse, NY; special friend, Gloria Payne; and a number of nieces and nephews.




The family would like to express a special Thank You to Northeast Georgia Hospice for their love and compassion during his illness.




In lieu of flowers for those who desire, please make donations to your favorite charity or church, or The Good News at Noon Medical Facility, P.O. Box 2683 Gainesville, GA 30503; 770-503-1369 or www.goodnewsclinics.org .




Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel 989 Riverside Drive Gainesville, Georgia, 770-297-6200. Online condolences may be expressed at www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.