Donald Martin,83, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Born in Benton, Illinois, on March 4, 1942, to Harry Lee Martin and Lillian (Bain) Martin.
Donald was a proud veteran, having served honorably with the United States Marine Corps. His disciplined and compassionate nature, solidified during his military service, remained with him throughout his life. Professionally, Donald dedicated his career to the Murray Center, where his work left a lasting impact on those he served and worked alongside.
A cherished resident of Centralia, Donald was an active life member of the Moose Lodge. He relished the camaraderie and sense of brotherhood found within the organization. Beyond his community service, Donald was an avid golfer, often finding joy and relaxation on the greens, where he built enduring friendships and cherished memories.
Donald is survived by his devoted wife, Patty Martin of Centralia; his son, Ronnie Martin and wife Cindy of Centralia; and his stepdaughter, Teresa White and husband Colt of Salem. He will be dearly missed by his sisters Joyce Oakley and Marsha Wilson of Benton; his grandchildren, Nick, Braxton, and Tyson, along with his great-grandson Gavin, who will carry forward his legacy of kindness, integrity, and love.
Donald had been preceded in death by his beloved parents, Harry and Lillian Martin, as well as his brothers-in-law, Tim Wilson and Kenny Oakley. His large extended family of aunts and uncles, who have all passed, awaited him with loving arms.
Family, friends, and those whose lives Donald touched are invited to honor and celebrate his life at a service on Monday, January 5, 2025, at 1:00pm at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Arrangements are being handled by Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618)532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Donald’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.sutherlandfuneralhome.com and the Funeral Home Facebook page.
Donald’s unwavering love, gentle spirit, and immense contributions to both family and community will forever be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and in the spirit of the community he so dearly loved and served.
