Edgar A. "Buddy" Martin

Bartow- Edgar A. "Buddy" Martin, age 86, went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, January 29, 2021 from his home surrounded by his loving family. Born in Pinehurst, GA, on December 12, 1934, he was the son of the late Edgar and Rena Martin. He was a man of many talents; maintenance mechanic, pipefitter, phosphate mechanic, construction worker, farmer and beekeeper. He was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Bartow, where he served as a Sunday School Teacher for special needs kids and R.A. Leader for many years. He was a Scout Leader, Youth Ball Coach and team cook. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, gardening and being in the mountains. His greatest joy in life was spending time with his family. He loved watching his kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren participating in various sports and activities. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Betty Ruth Means and her husband Grady and also his precious daughter, Cindy McKinnish. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 68 years, Wilma Martin, daughter, Kathy Nooe (Tom) of Fort Meade, son, Eddie Martin (Lauri) of Bartow, son-in law, Jim McKinnish of Bartow, sister, Elsie Davis (Charlie) of Avera, GA and brother, Bobby Martin (Jama) of Wilmore, KY. He leaves behind his grandchildren: Richie Marsh (Jennifer), Crickett Nooe, Christina Tuscani (Robert), Buddy Martin (Ashley), Lindsey Martin, Dee Dee McKinnish and his great grandchildren: Colby, Kylie, Kenna, Caden and Karah Marsh, along with Lilah and Vincent Tuscani and Ava, Briley and Bo Martin. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, February 2nd at 11:00am at Wildwood Cemetery in Bartow. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd Hospice, 3470 Lakeland Hills Blvd., Lakeland, FL 33805 or the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, P.O. Box 1971, Lakeland, FL 33802-1971. *Out of courtesy for others, facial coverings and social distancing are recommended for those attending the service on Tuesday.*