Colonel Dane Randall Martin

Dane Randall Martin of Birmingham, AL, was born on February 3rd, 1948, to James and Ezzie Martin in Jacksonville, Alabama. He departed this earthly life on Friday, December 23rd, 2022, at the age of 74.

After graduating Jacksonville High School in Jacksonville, AL in 1966, Dane attended Jacksonville State University and met the love of his life, Deborah Leigh Cobb. Dane Martin was married to Deborah Leigh Cobb on August 22nd in 1970 in Hanceville, AL. Their union included over 52 beautiful years of marriage, 3 children, and 7 grandchildren.

Dane received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Jacksonville State University in 1970 and later went on to obtain his Master’s degree in Public Administration from Troy State University. After receiving his Bachelors, Dane began a distinguished military career in the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country for 30 years. In the United States Air Force, Dane was a command pilot with more than 3,300 flying hours which included 362 combat hours in Southeast Asia. Military roles throughout Dane’s career included Commander of the 91st Air Refueling Squadron at Malmstrom AFB in Montana, Director of Command and Control, Tanker Airlift Control Center at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, Professor and Vice Commandant at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama, and Vice Commander of Andrews Air Force Base in Washington DC. In 2003, Dane retired from the Air Force with the rank of Colonel and multiple awards including Distinguished Flying Cross and Meritorious Service Medal. After his military career, Dane worked in multiple leadership roles including Vice President at Research Solvents and Chemicals in Birmingham, AL and President at Hallmark University, a private college in San Antonio, TX.

Dane loved the Lord and accepted Him as his Savior at the age of 9. He spent most of his time loving and serving his dear wife and best friend, Debbie. He cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren especially in the summer on the family’s annual cousin’s trip. Dane loved socializing with friends from his church, reading, photography, writing, gardening and spending time outdoors. He was an active member of Church of the Highlands in Birmingham, AL, and enjoyed serving his community and friends through his church. People who knew Dane would acknowledge his optimistic outlook on life as he always saw the bright side of things. He would always choose faith and trust in the Lord when walking through life’s challenges.

Dane is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie and his three sons, Adam Harrison Martin of Auburn, AL (wife Laynee, sons Harrison and Warren), Evan Grey Martin of Madison, AL (wife Lori, son Luke, daughter Elle), and Joshua Grant Martin of Cumming, GA (wife Renee, daughter Charlotte, sons Grant and Caleb).

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Highlands College.