Samuel Burtran Martin, Jr.

Samuel B. Martin, Jr.

October 30, 1948 – November 6, 2023

Samuel B. Martin Jr. “Sam” was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend that passed away on Monday, November 6, of natural causes at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, MS, at the age of 75.  Visitation will be 12 Noon on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at First Baptist Church Fannin with his funeral service starting at 2 pm.  Burial will follow in Fannin Baptist Cemetery.  

He was born in Clarksdale, MS to Samuel B. Martin, Sr. and Violet Marshall Martin. His paternal grandparents were W.M. Martin, Sr. and Bessie Moore Martin and maternal grandparents were Claude L. Marshall and Opal Richard Marshall.

At the age of five, his family moved to Jackson, MS and resided in the Alta Woods neighborhood where Sam began as a young entrepreneur mowing yards when he was only eight years old. As a lefthanded baseball pitcher, he made his mark being an All-Star player. After attending Hinds Junior College, he joined the Air Force and was stationed in Austin, Texas. When he returned to Jackson, he began a 34-year career with Illinois Central Railroad (later becoming Canadian National) in various positions including conductor and train master.

Sam is remembered by his family for his keen sense of humor, being a masterful and unrelenting debater, his generosity, and his work ethic. Above all, he will be remembered for the devotion and the love he shared for his family.

He is survived by his wife, Betty B. Martin, of Brandon, MS and five children: Sam B. Martin III (Mickie) of Pelahatchie, MS, Angela Martin King of Bryam, MS, Sarah Martin Kanorwala (Anees) of Cary, NC, John Martin of Ellisville, MS, and Aaron Wade Martin (Bethany), missionaries in Europe.

 Sam is also survived by two brothers and two sisters, Richard Martin (Teresa) of Brandon, MS, Charles Martin (Diane) of Brandon, MS,  Stephanie M. Darnell (Rod) of Lillington, NC, and Claudia M. Miley of Jackson, MS.  Additionally, he is survived by thirteen grandchildren: Taylor M. Smith (Jase), J.T. Martin, Sam B. Martin IV, Josh Poole, Breanna King, Hunter King, Zarah Kanorwala, Sofia Kanorwala, Caleb Guerrero, Jonathan Guerrero, Ryleigh Guerrero, Cadence Martin, and Daylin Martin along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

 Samuel B. Martin’s legacy is a life marked by love, dedication, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship.