Mark Anthony

Martin

Mark Anthony Martin, Sr., revered as a devoted husband, loving father, and faithful friend to many, passed away on January 14, 2025, at 75 years of age, leaving behind a legacy of love, perseverance, and profound connections.

Mark was born June 12, 1949 to Ardonia Sherman Martin and Walter "Buck" Martin in Toledo, Ohio. Though he loved to travel, especially to family reunions, he lived his entire life in Toledo, a life marked by hard work, dedication, determination and an unshakable commitment to those he loved.

Mark retired from "Jeep" after more than 30 years of service to Fiat Chrysler Automotive, in 2012. His tireless work ethic, loyalty, and pride in all he did was quite evident to his co-workers and also to those who served with him at his church – New Covenant Church of the Living God where he served faithfully, also for decades. His elevation to Deacon was important to him - a true source of pride. And oh, how he loved his "Food Bank Ministry".

If being a fan were considered a hobby, the Cleveland Browns was most certainly his. He rarely missed an opportunity to root for or represent his team with his attire. He did so with a passion that could light up any room. He used to approach bowling with that same enthusiasm and could talk trash with the best of them. Mark's wit, at times sharp and delightfully wicked, was a hallmark of his personality and a source of endless laughter for those who knew him best. His sense of humor rendered him simply unforgettable.

A devoted family man, Mark found love again, and much joy in his second marriage to Josephine, in 2022. She brought a renewed light to his life, and an appreciation for life's simplest blessings. Their time together was a gift cherished by both.

Mark was preceded in death by both his parents, Ardonia Sherman-Martin and Walter "Buck" Martin; brother: Walter F. Martin; three sisters Carrie Marie (LaVon) Carter, Monica (Sims) Isom, and Eartha "Ursaline" Martin; his daughter, LaShawn Jordan; and his late wife of 45 years, LueDell Fields-Martin.

He is survived by his loving wife, Josephine Martin; and his children: Sons, Lindsey Peterson Jr. of Columbus, OH, Mark Martin, Jr. and Monty Martin of Toledo, OH; Daughters, Vielene (Cornelius) McKinley of Huntsville, AL and Kristie (Victor) Knighten of Toledo, OH; 10 Granddaughters, Shantae Peterson of Fort Washington, MD, Kenyatta Peterson and Komiya McKinley of Huntsville, AL, Asha (Carl) Sekel, Cherisse Brunner, Taryn and Kynnedy Knighten, Daijah and Amari Martin of Toledo, OH, and Chayna Brunner of Southgate, MI.; 6 Grandsons, Lindley Peterson III, Marque Knighten, Kameron Peterson, Monty Jr., LaMonte and Ja'vion Martin of Toledo, OH, along with 4 Great Grands. Blended Family: Valerie Coley of Toledo, OH, Sharon Elliott of Pittsburgh, PA, Joy Staples of Centralia, IL, Min. Douglas (Chardée) Ward of Pittsburgh, PA, Min. Ivan (Terlyin) Coley of Toledo, OH, Pastor Jeremy (Jennifer) Coley of Toledo, OH, Min. Joseph Ward of Toledo, OH, and a host of loving grand and great grandchildren whom he formed a loving and lasting relationship and extended family, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.