Jack Ira Martin

Jack was born in Beaumont, Texas on June 23, 1928 to Ernest and Era Martin. Jack was a lifetime member of North End Baptist Church in Beaumont, Texas since the early age of 6 years old where he became a Christian by accepting Christ as his Savior. Jack met the love of his life and lifetime friend and wife, Evelyn J. Neal in North End Baptist church in their early childhood years. Jack and Evelyn were married May 11, 1950 and recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary.

Jack was ordained and served as an active Deacon of the church in his late 20’s until his health limited his service. He was a mentor and encourager of his faith to many as evident by his life. Jack had a servant’s heart for people as witnessed by his service in various church ministries for children, youth and homebound visitation. Jack especially enjoyed serving in the church VBS ministry during his retirement years and was disappointed when his health prevented him from serving the children.

Jack retired with 31 years of service at Gulf States Utilities Company of Beaumont, Texas, where he was promoted from within to a managerial role.

In addition to his loving wife Evelyn, Jack’s wealth was in his family, daughter Jackie Farish, and husband Charlie and daughter Linda Youngblood. Jack’s family was considered one of his greatest joys in life and the family tradition was to celebrate many holidays together at their property in Lumberton, Texas with his children, 6 grandchildren: Derrick Farish, Amy Youngblood, Kristin Castrillon and husband Chris, Beth Hawkins and husband David, Kelly Dorfman and husband Peter, and Michael Youngblood and wife Georgia. Great grandchildren include: Brin Youngblood and Logan Hawkins, Darren, Alyssa and Rebecca Castrillon, Makenna and Lilia Youngblood, and Juniper Dorfman.

In addition, Jack is survived by his sister, Geraldine Sharp of Silsbee, Texas, several nieces and nephews and many extended family members.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday June 7, 2016 from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Forest Lawn Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday June 8, 2016 at the North End Baptist Church 5115 Eastex Freeway in Beaumont with a graveside to follow at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Chester, Texas under the direction of Forest Lawn Funeral Home. Memorial contributions can be made to Children's or Youth Ministries at North End Baptist Church.