Robert H. Martin, Sr. was born in Barkada, Arkansas on April 4th, 1942. He grew up and was raised in the Wilmar and Barkada area. Although he was an excellent student, like other young men in those days, he left school in the 10th grade and went to work. He soon discovered the Pipeline Industry and decided to become a Pipeliner at the age of sixteen. After being a Laborer for a short while, he joined and became a lifelong member of The International Union of Operating Engineers with a specialty for running Dozers and Side-Booms. Soon, he became a Straw Boss and Foreman of multiple crew types on the Pipeline. But over the years, his specialty was as a well-known and sought-after Lowering-In, Tie-In, and Road Boring Foreman. He also worked as a Spreadman for Pipeline Companies such as Horizontal Holes, Inc and Price Gregory International, Inc.
Over the course of his long career, he worked on Pipeline Construction jobs all across the United States, including the Trans-Alaskan Pipeline in 1976. He also worked internationally on a job in New Zealand in 1974. After 53 years of working in the industry, he retired from the Pipeline in 2012. However, after his retirement, he was often called upon for advice, which he gave from the relaxation of his recliner with his Boston Terrier dog, Mossy, lying right beside him. For his many years of Pipeline Industry service, he was inducted into The Pipeliners' Hall of Fame. Yet, beyond that honor, to his sons and possibly to many others, due to his track record, expertise, and talents, Robert H. Martin, Sr. may be considered as one of The Greatest Pipeliners that has ever lived.
As a person, he was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved to tell stories and jokes to make others laugh. He was giving, caring, charitable, a ''Ford Man'', and a Christian. He was also a Democrat and certainly did not mind telling you so when discussing and debating the subject of politics. In his past time, he loved riding his Gaited Saddle horses, playing Dominos, dancing to Country music with his wife, attending Dirt Track Stock Car Racing events, going to The Talledega 500 when he could, and was an avid every Sunday television viewing NASCAR fan. He was very proud to be a Free Mason of the 32nd Degree.
Robert H. Martin, Sr. was preceded in death by his adoring and loving wife, the late Barbara Ann Martin of Monticello, whom he married on February 16, 1962, two years after meeting her at a Wilmar dance. They enjoyed their life together here on Earth, and we are certain that they will now have a great time for all of eternity together in Heaven. Their smooth two-step and waltz on The Streets of Gold will be the highlight of their reunion and any Country Dance God may grant the angels to have in Heaven.
Also, awaiting him there at Barbara Ann's side will be their twin sons who did not survive a premature birth in 1969. He will get to hug them and get to know them now. That is something he has looked forward to doing. We are sure they will be glad to get to know their Dad because his two sons here on Earth surely were blessed to have him as their Dad. He was the best Dad any child could have ever had and his earthly sons consider themselves fortunate. In addition, he will also be reunited in Heaven with his mother whom he has longed to see again (Jewell Marie Martin); two brothers (Guice and Garvin Martin); and a sister (Creola Reynolds).
He is survived by two sons (Robert H. Martin, Jr, MD, and Roger Dale Martin); four grandchildren (Brittney Ann Martin-Norsworthy, Austin Sykes Martin, Madeline Grace Martin, and Meredith Jewel Martin); one great-grandchild (Stoney Riggs Norsworthy); two daughters-in-law (Angila Benson Martin and Carole McGarr Martin); two step-grandchildren (John Michael Efird and Max Hyatt Efird); and a grandson-in-law (William Seth Norsworthy).
He is also survived by 3 siblings (Margaret Tucker, Don Martin, and Joyce Woods); a sister-in-law (Linda Griffin-Heath); as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends that he loved and cared about very much.
Special gratitude is extended to those who checked in on him and kept him company at his home over the last few years such as his dear friend, Mary Thompson; and someone he considered like a daughter, Kristy Pamplin.
Pallbearers are: Seth Norsworthy, C.J. Reed, Jeff Patton, Ricky Trantham, Scotty Ferrell, Mark Gober, and Colton Reed. Honorary Pallbearers are: J.R. Jackson, Eddy Montgomery, Mike Adrian, Don Brazzell, Glen Perkins, and Ed Kelly.
Visitation will be at the Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home in Monticello, Arkansas from 6-8 PM on December 8, 2022. The funeral service will also be held at the Stephenson-Dearman Funeral Home on December 9, 2022, at 1 PM. The presiding minister for the service will be Pastor Michael Griffith, Jr. The eulogy will be given by Brother Billy Collins.
The graveside and burial service following the funeral will be at The Union Cemetery on Hwy 35 West in Rye, Arkansas.
All friends, family, and the public are invited to attend.
Condolences(15)
Glen Perkins
Momticello, AR Friday, December 9, 2022 It is a difficult week for family and friends. Our family loved Robert Harrell and Barbara. He is a good man and a friend to our family. So sad to see him leave us all. Time and God will help us all through these difficult days.Linda Devine
Monticello, AR Thursday, December 8, 2022 So sorry for your loss Robert, Jr.,Roger and your children and the rest of your family. I can remember many good times in Robert and Barbara’s home. They were definitely a great couple that enjoyed life. I know they are so happy to be reunited. Love and prayers in the coming days.James and Kathy Berry
Monticello, AR Thursday, December 8, 2022 Martin FamilyWe are so sorry for the loss of Robert Harold. Our hearts are sad for the loss of a long time friend. This week we have been remembering all the wonderful times we shared with both Robert and Barbara.
We love all of you and we are praying for you.
James and Kathy
Kay McClain Worbington
Monticello, AR Wednesday, December 7, 2022 Dear Family, You have my sympathy at this very sad time. Robert Harrell was certainly one of the good guys, and to know him was to love him. I have many good memories of our families going to church together. There is no doubt that Robert H. was highly thought of. Also, he and Barbara were a perfect example of a couple who loved and respected each other. I am sorry for your loss, but thankful he will not suffer ever again. You have my prayers as you adjust you life without your loved one!June Brixie
MONTICELLO, AR Wednesday, December 7, 2022 Dear family, I am so sorry for the loss of Robert Harold. Y'all have been blessed with wonderful parents and a great family. Prayers and love to each of you.Jennifer Stone
Star City, AR Wednesday, December 7, 2022 Roger Dale and Mrs. Margaret, I am so sorry for your loss. Many prayers for both of you and your family. May God provide y'all comfort during this time. Mrs. Creola was my neighbor for many years. I did not know that Mr. Robert, Mrs. Creola, and Mrs. Margaret were siblings. What a wonderful family God blessed you with. May God provide you all with much needed comfort during this time.Judy Williams
Mt. View, AR Tuesday, December 6, 2022 So sorry to hear that Uncle Robert has passed. He’s in a far more wonderful home than ever. He’s walking on the streets of gold. He’s praising and living in God’s glory now. He will truly be missed. Losing your parents is one of the hardest things to go through. Just know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Judy and KentMack Bennett
Granbury, TX Tuesday, December 6, 2022 Robert was a good guy and great Pipeliner. I always got a kick out of him. He's headed up the the big spread now.David Packard
Bowling green, VA Tuesday, December 6, 2022 Thoughts and prayers to you and your family,Barbara Newton
Monticello, AR Tuesday, December 6, 2022 So very sorry to hear about Mr Robert. We have been friends a long time and he will be missed. Praying for all the family.Tina Bostic
Fischer, TX Monday, December 5, 2022 David and I are so very sorry to hear of Robert's passing. We know he is now in heaven dancing with his beautiful wife Barbara. Our deepest condolences to all.Doris A. Herring
Gosport, IN Monday, December 5, 2022 I'm betting that you and Wayne are having a great time catching up with many of the pipeliners that were waiting for you.Heaven is rocking with pipeline tales today!!!
Doris A. Herring
Gosport, IN Monday, December 5, 2022 I am saddened to learn about Roberts' passing. We have lost another fine mand and very good friend.Michelle Handley
Monticello, AR Monday, December 5, 2022 OMG!!! My dear sweet friend has gained his wings and went on to hear HIM say "Well Done Robert" Well Done, You Can Come On In!! I will miss our conversations and your laugh. I will always always Love U my dear friend I no you are so happy to be back with your lovely Wife. Rest In Peace & Love Buddy!!! Thank you for calling me one last time too.... Always important to let your loved ones and friends no that you Love them!!!Carole (Johns) Rushing
(Woodlawn) RISON 71665, AR Sunday, December 4, 2022 Margaret and family: It broke my heart when I found out about Robert Harold. I always thought so highly of him. My prayer is that the Lord will give you all the strength to bear such a difficult time and will give you the peace and comfort you will need in the days to come. Remember I love you and you will be in my thoughts and prayers daily. Many share your grief with you.with Love and Sympathy,
Carole Doss Rushing