Jack Donald Martin, Sr.

Jack Donald Martin, Sr., 95, of Pineville, WV, passed away on Monday, June 15, 2026, from natural causes. Born on August 10, 1930, in Matoaka, WV, he was the son of the late John and Ruth George Martin.

Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife and high school sweetheart of 70 years, Evelyn Martin; two grandchildren, Joe Smallwood and Desiree Martin; his brothers, John Harry (Jane) Martin and Robert Martin; his sister, Connie (Jim) Gorman; and his son‑in‑law, Charles “Pickle” Smallwood.

Jack’s greatest blessing in life was his family. Those left to cherish his memory include: Kathy Smallwood of Louisville, KY; Don (Kathy) Martin of Beckley; Bill (Geneva) Martin of Pineville; David Martin of Greenwood, SC; Sarah Martin (Cindy) of Oak Island, NC; Leigh Ann (Danny) Lumbo of Saulsville, WV; and his sister‑in‑law, Anita Martin of Bluefield, WV. He is also survived by eleven grandchildren, sixteen great‑grandchildren, and two great‑great‑grandchildren.

A proud 1948 graduate of Pineville High School and a member of the PHS Hall of Fame, Jack went on to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. While stationed in Michigan during the Cold War, he participated in Operation Fox Able, the transfer of F‑80 fighter jets to Germany to test in‑flight refueling. He flew in the second seat of the T‑38 trainer aircraft so that mechanics could keep pace with the fighters and be available upon landing.

Jack worked for 40 years with Appalachian Power, serving many of those years as area supervisor. He also served proudly on the board of the Wyoming County Economic Development Authority.

A lifelong member of Pineville United Methodist Church, Jack served faithfully as Sunday School Superintendent. He was also a dedicated member of the Pineville Volunteer Fire Department, where he carried badge number two and served as treasurer over the years.

Jack was a past member of both the Pineville Rotary Club and the Lions Club. He was an avid gardener who took great pride in his harvest, especially his tomatoes. He was also a member of the West Virginia Turkey Hunters Hall of Fame and the Jack Martin Chapter of the Guyandotte Longbeards National Wild Turkey Federation.

A memorial service will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Pineville United Methodist Church, with visitation from 12–2 PM. The Reverends Silas Mullins and Michael Knotts will officiate. Military Honors will be performed by the Wyoming County Honor Guard.

The family extends their heartfelt appreciation to Hospice of Southern West Virginia for the dedication, compassion, and support they provided to Jack and to those who loved him. Their care was a true blessing. The Pineville Fire Department assisted Jack on several occasions, and their kindness and service were deeply appreciated. Donations of sympathy may be made to the Pineville Fire Department, PO Box 402, Pineville, WV 24874.

Online Condolences: Evans-Calfee Funeral Services

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