Claude (CR) Martin of Bena, age 87, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, September 21,2020. He was born August 30, 1933 in Radford, Virginia, to the late George Henry Martin and Mary Maude Martin. In addition to his parents, his beloved wife of 64 years, Sonya Knutsen Martin, his siblings , and many relatives preceded him in death. He is survived by two sons, Randy (Eileen) and Matthew of Hampton, VA, many nieces, nephews and friends.

CR served in the United States Air Force during the Korea conflict. During the 80's snd 90's, most Sunday's family and friends were hosted for many years for cookouts at their home. Great memories and lifetime friendships were made. CR and Sonya owned and operated Furniture Fashions until retirement, located in Newport News, Virginia.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, at Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery in Suffolk, with Rev. Gene Cecil officiating.

This beautiful prayer was found in the family bible, penned by Sonya: "Father, take my hand —stay with me while I
go to sleep, guide me safely in the valley and receive me when I awaken in glory!" In the light of John 14:2, this is a
prayer every Christian can utter with Holy confidence. Apart from the inspired writers of the scripture, John Milton
perhaps said it best when he exclaimed "Death for the believer is a golden key that opens for him the place of
eternity.
Oh Mourner, meditate on John 14:2, think of the joy your Christian loved one is now experiencing in Glory and it will
put a rainbow in the cloud of your sorrow. Weep not because I walk no longer with you. Remember I am walking
streets of gold. That we think of death as ending, but for the Christian it is a Glorious beginning: we think of it as going away but it is really a wondrous arriving.

Services under the direction of W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home.