Ronnie Wayne Martin, a lifetime resident of Martinsville & Henry County, passed away on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at the age of 72. After several months of declining health, Ronnie died peacefully with his beloved wife Nancy by his side.
Ronnie was born in Martinsville on December 30, 1949, to father Fred Samuel Martin and mother Hattie Oakes Martin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers Glenwood Martin and James “J.D.” Martin and sisters Doris Earles and Linda Hancock.
The youngest of eight children, Ronnie didn’t have the opportunity for much formal education. He worked any odd jobs he could find starting at an early age. His work ethic and desire to take care of his family led him to a long and successful career of 50+ years with Martin Processing, later becoming Ronile Inc.
If you asked Ronnie his greatest accomplishments, it wasn’t his career or golf game. It was being a husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Anyone who knew Ronnie was touched by his kindness and humor. He had a generous spirit with a strong compassion for helping those in need. His family will strive to honor his legacy and continue to serve others as he did.
Ronnie never met a stranger and had an infectious laugh that would fill a room. His most cherished moments were spent at golf trips in South Carolina, summers with his children and grandchildren at the Jersey Shore, family gatherings at his sister, Linda “Bug” Hancock’s home, dining out with Nancy and friends and cooking on the grill while having a glass of wine with his treasured bullmastiff, Mojo.
Ronnie will be missed by all who knew him, and his passing leaves a huge hole in the hearts of many. The family wishes to thank: Dr. Katragadda, Annie Penn Oncology, Dr. Matthew Arroya and Mountain Valley Hospice. A special thanks to caregivers: Lorena Steen, Lornestine Penn & Eric Hall.
Those left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife of 53 years, Nancy Plott Martin and his two sons, Bradley, and his wife, Jennifer of Lake Barrington, IL and Matthew Martin of Blacksburg, VA. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Bradley, Colin, Ella & Emma Martin of Lake Barrington, IL, as well as brothers Ted Martin, and his wife, Barbara of Talbot, TN, Jerry Martin of High Point, NC and Larry Martin, and his wife, Joann of Concord, NC.
A visitation will be held at Norris Funeral Home at 1500 Kings Mountain Rd, Martinsville, VA 24112 on Saturday, May 14, 2022, from 11am to 1pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ronnie’s honor to The Martinsville & Henry County SPCA, https://www.spcamhc.org/form/donate. Online condolences may be made at www.NorrisFuneral.com.
