Mr. Thomas E. “Tom” Martin, 76, of San Mateo, Calif., went to be with his wife Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2022, at HCA Florida Putnam Hospital in Palatka, Fla.
Tom was born in Saxis and had been a resident of San Mateo for the past two months, coming from Temperanceville. He served honorably in the U.S. Army Reserve. He grew up in farming and later worked as a truck driver, hauling produce and chickens. He was a NASCAR fan and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and eating at the Texas Roadhouse. He served others less fortunate than himself by delivering meals he picked up at the food banks in Saxis and Temperanceville. He was a big man with a big heart who loved life. He loved taking trips with his wife to Pennsylvania to visit the Amish markets, bringing back fresh milk and whoopie pies for all he could.
Preceding him in death were his wife, whom he was devoted to for 40 years, Judith A. Martin, and a great-granddaughter, Jenieve Merritt.
Surviving are two daughters and son-in-law, Sandi and Dean Hickman, of Melfa, and Elizabeth Butler, of San Mateo; two sisters, Judith Warner, of Chincoteague, and Diane Hewitt, of Saxis; two grandchildren, Ronald Merritt Jr. and Christina Merritt; nine great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
A funeral service was held Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022, at noon, at Holloway Funeral Home in Pocomoke City, Md. A visitation was held one hour prior. Interment took place at Downings Cemetery in Oak Hall.
Memorial gifts may be sent to the Foodbank of the Eastern Shore, 24530 Coastal Blvd., Tasley, VA 23441.
Arrangements are in the care of Holloway Funeral Home, P.A., 107 Vine St., Pocomoke City, MD 21851 and Masters Funeral Home of Palatka.
