Charles Anthony Martin, age 68, of Livingston, Texas, passed away Wednesday, February 16, 2022 at Valley Baptist Hospital in Harlingen, Texas. He was born May 17, 1953 in Rockford, Illinois, the son of Charles Otis and Lena Baldridge Martin. On September 1, 1988, he married Mary Jane Morris in Hannibal, Missouri. He was previously married to Debbie Royce.
Charles attended Rockford schools, and later graduated from high school in Maynard, Arkansas. He had a long career as a welder for Butler Manufacturing and Midstate in Galesburg, Illinois. Later, he managed Lake Storey Campground in Galesburg for five years, then worked for Adventureland Park near Des Moines for two years. He also worked for Amazon and was a security guard in southern Texas for a time. He returned to Monmouth, Illinois area, where he managed Citizens Lake Campground and also worked in maintenance at Monmouth City Cemetery.
Charles loved being with his family and friends. Going to church was a very important part of each week, and when wintering in Texas, he and his wife would watch the Ascent Church of Galesburg Sunday services online. Survivors include his wife: Mary Jane, two step daughters: Caralea (Buck) Link of Oquawka, IL, Maralea (Dennis) Wright of Charleston, IL, one step son: Dickie (Renee) Goff of Biggsville, IL, one sister: Sue Herman of Maynard, AR, one brother: Jimmie (Susan) Martin of Midway, AR, ten grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren, five great great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son: Robbie Martin, one brother: Carl Martin, and two sisters: Wanda Latham and Audrey Lenderman.
A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, March 26, 2022 at Banks & Beals Funeral Home in Stronghurst with Pastor Brandon Wright officiating. Inurnment will follow in the Biggsville Cemetery. A memorial fund has been established for The Ascent Church of Galesburg. Please visit Charles’ obituary at banksandbeals.com to sign the guest book and leave a condolence.
