Edward Eugene "Gene" Martin, 85, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2022, at his home, surrounded by family.

Born in Newport News on November 29, 1936, Gene was the son of the late Eddie Marion and Doris O'Berry Martin. A graduate of Hampton High School, The Apprentice School at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company, Christopher Newport College, and the College of William and Mary, Gene worked over the years as a machinist, college teacher, accountant, and (for the majority of his career) as a piano technician.

Known as "The Piano Man with the Mustache," Gene tuned and repaired thousands of pianos in the Hampton Roads area and beyond. An active member of the Piano Technicians Guild and the Tidewater Gospel Music Association, Gene enjoyed traveling to their national conventions, as well as the many gospel sings he loved so much. A gifted pianist himself, Gene entertained family and friends with his unique stylings, especially in gospel and classical music. Gene was a charter and long-time member of Bethel Temple Church.

Gene was predeceased by his first wife, Josie Ellis Martin and second wife, Shirley Ellis Carroll Martin; and brother, Paul Martin. He is survived by wife Florence Smith Martin; nine children, Phyllis Reynolds (Rick), Kimberly Hewlett (Dave), Dana Heard, Susan Dyson, Pamela Bryson (Jeffrey), Donald Keith Carroll (Paula), Michelle Little (Aaron), Denise Topping (Warren) and Jeff Kuhn, along with nineteen grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and another on the way. In addition, Gene is survived by his sisters, Carol Martin Hayes (Bill) and Esther Martin Moeckl (Harold); and many in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 am Thursday, June 2, 2022 at Bethel Temple Church, 1705 Todds Lane, Hampton. The family will receive friends immediately following the service. A private burial will be held at Peninsula Memorial Park, Newport News.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bethel Temple Church, 1705 Todds Lane, Hampton, Virginia 23666.

The family would like to express their thanks and appreciation to Riverside Hospice and to family friend Sandra Flood for her joyful and loving care over the last several months.

Arrangements by W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home.