Janice Ray Martin

Janice Martin, cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 14th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born on January 6, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Janice grew up in the picturesque foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Newport, Tennessee. She graduated from Cocke County High School and maintained close friendships with many of her childhood friends.

Janice met her devoted husband, Bill Martin, in Michigan, where they built a life together for 53 beautiful years. Their union was blessed with four children whom they raised with love and dedication.

Janice was a woman of deep faith and community spirit. Her active involvement in the First United Methodist Church in Newport, Tennessee, and later in Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warren, Michigan, reflected her commitment to serving others and nurturing her spiritual journey. Throughout her life, she remained dedicated to her faith, finding solace and purpose within her church communities, including All Saints Lutheran Church and First United Methodist Church in Hartland, Michigan.

An engaged member of various committees, including prayer groups and quilt groups, Janice found fulfillment in contributing to her communities. Her generous spirit and compassionate nature touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark of kindness and warmth.

Janice retired from the US Postal Service in 1993 after a fulfilling career as a window clerk. Retirement afforded her the opportunity to embrace her passions fully. Whether engrossed in a good book, watching her beloved birds, knitting dishcloths, painting her fingernails a vibrant shade of purple, or embarking on adventures around the world, Janice exuded creativity and joy in every endeavor.

Upon the passing of her beloved husband, Bill Martin, Janice found companionship and joy in her dear friend Don. Together, they embarked on numerous memorable journeys, exploring new destinations and creating cherished memories that enriched Janice's life in immeasurable ways.

Above all, Janice treasured her role as a grandmother. She poured her heart and soul into caring for her nine grandchildren, finding immense joy in their laughter and companionship.

Janice was preceded in death by her niece, Leah Thornton, her grandson, Phil Martin and her beloved husband, Bill Martin.

Janice leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew her. She is survived by her children: Rusty Martin (Sherri), Raymond Martin (Teresa), Brian Martin (Lisa), and Melissa Samluk (Mike); her brother, Reese Thornton; her grandchildren: Paige Martin (Clayton), Kyle Samluk, Nathan Samluk, Kaylie Samluk, Lila Samluk, Jesse Jones, Kaylynn Caddell, and Lillyahnnah Caddell; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

In celebrating Janice's life, let us cherish the memories she created, the love she shared, and the legacy of kindness she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral Services will be held at 12:00pm on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at the Highland Chapel of the Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 3295 E. Highland Road in Highland. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, March 18, 2024 from 2:00pm until 8:00pm and Tuesday from 10:00am until the time of the service at Noon. Janice will then be reunited with her beloved husband Bill at Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan immediately following the service.

A luncheon will be held in her memory immediately following the service at Great Lakes Cemetery. Please join us at Hartland First United Methodist Church to celebrate her life and memories.