Robert “Jerry” Martin, 89 a longtime resident of Wilmington, DE passed away on Tuesday November 21, 2023, after a long illness. He died at home surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Monroe, North Carolina, Jerry was the only child of the late W.G. and Helen Martin. He graduated with an Associate degree from Charlotte college (later known as UNC Charlotte) in 1954. He continued his education and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from UNC Chapel Hill. Upon graduating, Jerry went to work for Dupont. Shortly after starting at Dupont, he was drafted and voluntarily joined the Army. He attended OCS and fulfilled his duties leaving with a rank of First Lieutenant. After his time in the Army was completed, he resumed his career with DuPont. He enjoyed his time working in Sales and Marketing and in the development of plastics, holding several supervisory positions. He retired from DuPont after 36 years. Later his DuPont division was taken over by CORTEVA agriscience. In 1960, Jerry married Mary Lemming. They spent 63 years together making beautiful memories while raising three children.
He was an active and dedicated member at St. Paul’s United Methodist church for over 50 years. He served as the Sunday school president. He was a greeter before services and organized many social activities. He often served as a Trustee leader and was an early member of the Thursday morning work crew. He enjoyed organizing historical information relating to the beginning of St. Paul’s. NASCAR was also a favorite activity that he often shared with a friend. He was a longtime member of the DuPont Country Club, enjoying a good round of golf and supporting the LPGA when held there. As a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, he held several responsible positions and helped others trace their ancestors. Yes…he was active in Politics.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Mary (Lemming) Martin; son Robert and his wife Barbara of Newark DE, daughter Laura of Wilmington DE, son Jeffrey of Wilmington DE, grandson Jason Dempsey, grandson Timothy Martin and his wife Kimberly, and granddaughter Samantha Martin. He is also survived by extended family in NC, OH and IN.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at AccentCare for their kindness and compassionate care for Jerry over the last few months. We wish to thank all those who sent cards and prayers, visited, called and gave us support in countless ways.
A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 2 from 1-2 pm, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1314 Foulk Road, Wilmington, DE where a Celebration of Life will follow at 2 pm. Burial will be private.
The family suggests in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in memory of R. Jerry Martin, 1314 Foulk Rd., Wilmington, DE 19803.
Messages of condolence may be sent to www.mccreryandharra.com
