Ron Martin

Ron Martin, 78, of Knoxville, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 27, 2025, at the Knoxville
Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.
Services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at the Riverside Community
Church in Knoxville.
(Please Note The Service and Burial are one week apart)
Graveside services with military honors will be the following Saturday, July 12th at 10:00 a.m. at
the Graceland Cemetery in Knoxville.
Memorials may be directed to the family, in care of his wife, Kathy.
Ronald Eugene Martin was born on March 10, 1947, in Kirksville, Missouri, to Roy and Dottie
(Capps) Martin. He grew up alongside his older brother, Don, and graduated from high school in
1965. Shortly after, Ron proudly enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country
during the Vietnam War aboard the USS King as a communications officer.
On December 21, 1970, Ron married the love of his life, Kathy Willis. Their marriage was filled
with love, laughter, and 54 wonderful years together. They were blessed with three
children—Willy, Andy, and Ami—and Ron found immense joy in being a devoted husband,
father, grandfather to 15 grandchildren, and great-grandfather to 9 great-grandchildren. He loved
his family more than anything.
Ron was known for his big heart, quick wit, and love of laughter. He had a special way of
showing affection through teasing and jokes, always bringing smiles to those around him. A true
people person, Ron never met a stranger and enjoyed striking up conversations wherever he
went.
Throughout his working years, Ron held several jobs, including at the VA Medical Center in
Knoxville as a computer specialist. Later, he found his passion in welding and worked at
Vermeer, a trade he proudly passed on to his sons, grandsons, and granddaughter Sarah. Ron was
endlessly curious and mechanically gifted—he loved taking things apart just to see how they
worked, whether it was a car, motorcycle, scooter, lawnmower, or even a television. He also
found peace in nature, especially while fishing.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Dottie Martin; his brother, Don Martin; and
his grandson, Guy Martin.
He is lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his wife, Kathy Martin; his children: Willy
(Chris) Martin, Andy (Sherri) Martin, and Ami Martin; grandchildren: Devin, Dylan, Sarah,
Esther, Hannah, Grayson, Zach, David, Stephanie, Austin (Tiffani), Sebastian (Bella), Damian,
Cameron, and Jase; nine great-grandchildren; and many other beloved relatives and friends.
Ron leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and curiosity—and hearts that are forever touched
by his life.