Ronald E. Martin || Obituary

Ronald E. Martin, affectionately known as “Big Ron,” passed away at the age of 74 in Paris, Texas on March 5, 2025.

A graveside service will be held at Hopewell Cemetery at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, March 11, officiated by Cleve Fendley.  No visitation has been scheduled.

Born in Checotah, Oklahoma, Ron dedicated his life to serving others. He began his career as a nursing home administrator and later owned and operated Colonial Lodge Retirement Center. He graduated from Southwestern State College in Weatherford, Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1972.

In 1982, Ron married Kathy, and they shared 35 wonderful years together until her passing. He was a member of College Street Church of Christ and actively participated in local service organizations, including the Jaycees, Rotary, and Noon Optimist.

Ron enjoyed a variety of hobbies, such as fishing, grilling, reading, playing Bridge, and cheering for his three grandsons in their various activities. He also enjoyed tending to his cattle and mules and owning dirt track race cars.

He is survived by his step-children who were like his own, Seanda Gilbert and her husband Norm of Paris, and Stephen Towler of Sumner; grandsons Bentley Gilbert of Chicago, Keyton Gilbert of Paris, and Logan Gilbert of Dallas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen K. Martin; his parents, Everett and Betty Lou Martin; his brother, James E. Martin; and his sister, Sharon K. Richardson.

Honorary pallbearers will include Don Hevron, Larry Greb, Raymond Nixon, Jimmy Gatlin, Cleve Fendley, David Glass and Sims Norment.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Colonial Lodge for their love and care, the staff at Heritage House at Paris Rehab and Nursing Facility for their compassion over the past four months, and On Call Home Health for the love and dignity they provided during this difficult time. A special thanks to Don Hevron for ALL he does.

Ron’s big personality and infectious laugh will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Online condolences may be sent to the Martin family by visiting www.fry-gibbs.com