William Irwin Martin

William Irwin Martin, age 93, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 12, 2024. Born on July 7, 1930, in Pike, West Virginia, Bill was the son of the late Virgil Blair Martin and Mildred (Spradling) Martin Jones. He married Ruth Curtis Martin on May 24, 1952, and in 1957, they relocated from Detroit, Michigan, to Newark, Delaware. They were married for 71 years. Bill was a trim repairman at Chrysler Corporation for 45 years before retiring in 1995. Upon retirement, he became a tour guide at the Chrysler plant, which he enjoyed immensely. He also volunteered at American Spirit Federal Credit Union, serving on the supervisory committee for many years. Bill was a founding member of the Newark Church of Christ and served as treasurer for 40 years. In addition, he participated in the church’s bread ministry, delivering bread to local charitable organizations each week. Bill was an avid gardener – every year he kept a large garden in his backyard, which he tended to for hours. He also enjoyed watching Westerns with his wife (most often Gunsmoke), loved collecting coins, and could fix absolutely anything. But most of all, he loved being with his children and grandchildren. Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Curtis Martin; his son, Bruce A. Martin; his parents; and 5 siblings. He is survived by his brother, Larry Jones (Barbara) of Newport News, VA; son, Ronald (Julia) Martin of Bear, DE; daughter, Sharon (Greg) Jamison of Middletown, DE; son, R. Scott (Lori) Martin of Round Rock, TX; and daughter-in-law, Ann Martin of Sevierville, TN. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Olivia R. Jamison (caregiver), Melody R. Martin, Molly R. Martin, Nicholas S. Jamison, and Samuel S. Martin. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Bill’s memory to The People’s House of Newark Church of Christ, 91 Salem Church Road, Newark, DE 19713. A viewing will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024, from 10-11 AM at Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home, 635 Churchmans Rd., Newark, DE, 19702, followed by a service at 11 AM. Burial will follow at Gracelawn Memorial Park. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com.

William Irwin Martin

July 7, 1930 - April 12, 2024

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