Gaynell (Smith) Martin

If you knew her, you also knew she was a strong woman who stood for her convictions and honored her word.  Gaynell loved with her whole heart and was fiercely independent.  From a young age, she knew the value of a hard day’s work and taught her children those same morals that she grew up with.  Her life was an example of what she cared most about, that being her family and friends and above all else, Jesus Christ. 

Gaynell married Max Martin and in 1976, she suddenly was faced with carrying on life without him. Although this was a trying time for her, she successfully made sure to continue the love they had and never failed to show that to all those around her.  She opened her home to all the children in the neighborhood and was happiest when her living room and yard were full of young’uns running around and laughing with the joy that only children can portray. 

Gaynell was very proud of her own children.  She taught them the fundamentals of life and how to work for what you wanted.  She also taught them to take care of themselves as well as being a supporter of those who needed them.  When she became a grandmother, her life was complete…. or so she thought... until great grandmother and great-great grandmother were titles she was given!

When Gaynell was not at home, the only other place she was likely found was with her best friend Kathy (and boy did they have adventures) or at church.   She was very devoted to living a life dedicated to her Savior and teaching His word and love to all those she encountered.  Her passion for The Lord’s teachings and desire to live a Christ centered life will forever be what defined her and the love she showed, happiness she bestowed on others and passion for children will forever be remembered by those loved by her.

Gaynell is survived by her children, Deborah Wells and husband, Jake, Malinda Martin and Nathanael Martin; grandchildren, Charity Martin, Christopher & Maegan DuBose, Carson Martin, Cory & Mariah McCarver, Jordan McCarver, Jessica Randolph, Justin McBride, Natalie Martin, Rebecca Martin and Joshua (Chad) Martin; great-grandchildren, Colton Mills, Caitlin Mills, Mia McCarver, Arturo Guerrero Vazquez, Ryleigh Moore, Brynnah Moore and Willow Martin and great-great grandchild, Cora Newman; sister, Louise Tindall and husband, Joel; as well as numerous other family members.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Max Martin; children, Tony Martin and Felecia Martin McCarver; her parents, Ben J and Lou Riller Smith; and siblings, Lennie & Earl Butcher, Marvin Smith, Bennie & Margaret Smith, Raymond Smith and Chester Smith.

Serving as pallbearers will be Steve Martin, Mitch Martin, Brent Dies, John Dies, Brian Pirtle and Kesler Pirtle.

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