Charles Arthur Martin born in Russellville, West Virginia, passed away surrounded by his loving family on February 25, 2025 at the age of 74. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Erma Martin; brothers, Bobby, John, Owen, Jack, Gerald and Kermit Martin; and his granddaughter Naomi Martin.

Charles was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.  He is survived by the love of his life, best friend and wife of 54 years, Angelita Ribalde Martin; his devoted and loving children, Jeffery (Rhonda) Martin, John (Lisa) Martin, Joseph (Margie Veron Cruz) Martin and his favorite daughter Carmelita (John) Worley.

He also leaves behind grandchildren who deeply loved him, Jonathan Angot, Alexis Martin, Matthew Martin; Coty Beals, Gabriel Martin; Skyler (Jazmin) Salters, Joel Martin, Xavier Martin, Juliana Martin, Vincent Dela Cruz; Cody (Olivia) Martin-Hurst, Ireland Martin-Hurst and Carleigh Martin-Hurst.  He was also blessed with three great grandchildren, the twins Charles Arthur and Elijah Michael Martin-Hurst and Mahina Ebron.

He was equally loved by his Aunt Kathryn (John) Diehm; his brothers and sisters, James C. Martin, Jr. (Ginny), Sharol (Rick) Cunningham, Margaret Sticklen, Joyce Jones, Calvin Martin, Henry Ull, Eunice Martin, Sarah Martin and Patricia Martin.  He was also very much loved by his many nieces and nephews.

During the Vietnam War Era, Charles served his country with distinction and honor as a Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force and retired after 24 years of honorable service.  During his service he received the Meritorious Service Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Commendation Medal, Distinguished Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Organizational Excellence Award, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters, Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal with 1 long tour ribbon with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, NCO PME Graduate Ribbon with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Air Force Training Ribbon, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Device and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After military retirement Charles worked for the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier until his death.

Charles was active for many years serving as a youth sports coach, offering guidance and mentorship to numerous young men in his community.  He had quick wit and a sense of humor with a warm smile loved by all.

A Memorial Service will take place at 3 PM on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home, 210 Harpersville Road, Newport News, VA 23601.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to one of the following organizations: American Cancer Society, United Network for Organ Sharing, National Kidney Foundation.

Online condolences may be made to the family at wjsmithandson.com/obituaries.