Elias "EJ" Jefferson Martin

September 30, 1923-June 8, 2014

Columbus, Georgia- Elias "EJ" Jefferson Martin, 90, of Columbus, GA., died on June 8, 2014. Graveside services with full military honors, officiated by Rev. Jerry Horner will be held on Wednesday, June 11, 2014, 11:00 a.m. at Parkhill Cemetery in Columubs, GA. Visitation with the family will be held on Tuesday, June 10, 2014 from 5-7 p.m. at Striffler Hamby Mortuary on Macon Road, Columbus, GA.

Mr. Martin was born September 30, 1923 in Person County, NC. He was the second son of the late Virginia Frances (Epps) Martin and Henry Green Martin of Person County, NC. Mr. Martin was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Lalia M. Martin and by his only son Allen Lynn Martin; as well as by two brothers, Minor Martin, Bobby G. Martin; and one sister, Fannie M. Epps.

Mr. Martin lived and traveled many places around this country and the world in his lifetime. His 22 years of military service encompassed three wars; WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. He was awarded the Purple Heart, multiple battle stars, and many other ribbons and honors during his service to our country. After retiring from the Army, Mr. Martin was employed with Civil Service at Fort Benning, GA., where he worked for 20 years before retiring in 1987 from the Housing Section. For the next 27 years, he pursued those dreams he had of retirement. He was an avid outdoorsman and loved to deer hunt and drag race, both as a driver and as a spectator of his grandson. Mr. Martin was a member of Lakewood Baptist Church, Phenix City, AL. He is survived by one daughter, Lanette Martin of Hamilton, GA.; one sister, Cynthia E. Triplett of Roanoke, VA.; one grandson, Jefferson (Jeff) D. Sizemore of Pine Mountain Valley, GA.; five nieces; five nephews; and numerous friends.

Condolences may be offered at www.shcolumbus.com.