Donald Edward Martin, Sr., 85, of Alleghany County, passed away, on Wednesday January 18, 2023, surrounded by his family. Mr. Martin was born on the 18th day of March 1937 in Alleghany County, a son of the late William E. and Eva Webb Martin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by the mother of his children and his wife of 40 years, Minnie Curry Martin in 1997; a son, Ricky Martin; a daughter and son in law, Janie Martin Arrant and Jacob; and a brother Kenneth Martin. He served in the United States Navy for 21 years during his time he served during the Vietnam War and the Korean Conflict. During his time in the military, he taught flight school and flew with the Blue Angels. He retired in 1997 as an Associate Professor for DSLCC. He was a member of the Hollywood (MD) Lodge # 223; the Kazim Shrine Temple of Roanoke; and a longtime avid musician in the area. He was an instructor and apprenticeship coordinator for Westvaco. In his spare time, he enjoyed target shooting. 

He is survived by his wife of 12 years Caroline Stickler Martin of Lewisburg, WV; two sons Donnie Martin Jr. and his wife Debbie of Hot Springs and David Charles Martin and wife April of Covington; a number of grandchild to include Daniel Martin and his wife Tina, Vicky Lawson and husband Daniel, Heather Martin, Skyler Martin, Evan Martin, Kasandra Martin, Kaylynn Martin, Zane Martin, and Riley Martin; a number of great grandchildren; a brother Jobi Martin of Georgia; a daughter in law Tami Martin of Washington; and a number of nieces and nephews. 

In keeping with his wishes his body has been cremated. A funeral service will be held on February 11, 2023, at 2:00 PM in the Chapel of Arritt Funeral Home. 

The family will receive their friends one hour prior to the service on Saturday February 11, 2023. Military rites will be conducted by the Curtis A. Smith Post 1033 Veterans of Foreign Wars. 

The family suggests in lieu of flowers that memorial donations in Mr. Martin's name be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 The funeral arrangements are being handled by Arritt Funeral Home.