Willis Carlton Martin

Yadkinville - Mr. Willis Carlton Martin, 90, passed away January 25, 2025. He was born in Stokes County on November 3,1934 to the late Fred Cecil Martin and Gwendolyn Dearmin Martin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 65 years, Patty Long Martin; daughter, Julie Martin Bethea; brother, Freddie Martin; nephew, Marty Martin; daughter-in-law, Pamela Martin; nephew and motorcycle maintenance assistant, Robbie Long. Surviving is his son, Jim Martin; nephew, Zachary Badgett; grandson, Chase Martin; nieces, Fonda Ferguson and Amanda Martin; sister-in-law, Frankie Martin. 

After serving in the US Army for 2 years in Olympia, Washington, Mr. Martin became a middle school health/social studies/ PE teacher at Yadkinville Elementary School for the next 35 years where he made lifelong friends with both colleagues and students. His laid-back demeanor, the acceptance of all his students and willingness to discipline made him a memorable and positive influence in numerous people’s lives. His ability to remember their names and antics associated with them was uncanny.

Carlton was a graduate of Appalachian State Teachers College where he met the love of his life, Patty. For 65 years they made an inspiring team and were truly an example of how to live. Like so many from this area and that generation, he will be missed and impossible to replace. The family would like to thank Larry and Jane Long for their lifelong friendship and assistance and a special thank you to Susie Hoots for all of her help and lunches. The family will receive friends on Sunday, February 2, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Gentry Family Funeral Services in Yadkinville. A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Carlton family. Online condolences can be made to www.gentryfuneralservice.com.