Fred Martin, 75, of Madison, NC passed Friday, January 3, 2025. Public viewing will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Perry- Spencer Funeral Home, Madison, NC with the family receiving friends from 5:00 p.m.- 6:p.m. Visitation will be held from 1:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025 at Mary D. Perry Memorial Chapel, Madison, NC with service beginning at 2:00 p.m.

Fred Martin, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home on Friday, January 3rd, 2025, at Moses Cone Memorial Hospital in Greensboro, NC. Fred was 75, born in Madison, NC, on June2nd, 1949.

Fred was a pioneer. As one of the first six African-American students to integrate Madison-Mayodan High School in 1965, he overcame tremendous challenges, demonstrating his strength, determination and perseverance. Whatever Fred set out to do, he approached it with unwaving dedication and commitment.

He was highly intelligent and loved the details of things. this was also a testament of his hard work and dedication, as he built a successful career, working for NC A&T State University, Cone Mills, US Postal Service and Duke Energy before his retirement in 2016.

Preceded in death by his parents, Hattie Gentry Martin and Sidney “Dyke” Martin and siblings Larry, Charles, Edward “Ed” Martin, Billy Pratt, Alberta Martin Ziglar and Carol Martin, Fred is survived by his loving sisters; Stella Pratt Terry, Mattie Pratt Wall and Elizabeth Pratt Martin, all of Rockingham County, Lisa Lindsey of Walnut Cove, NC and sister-in-law, Rosie Martin of Kernersville, NC.

Fred's life was enriched by his strong faith. He found peace and guidance within his faith community under the great leadership of Teacher Althea Hairston, where he attended The Community of God Church for over 10 years. Fred lived a life marked by love for his family, resilience and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He believed strongly in the Lord and had peace in knowing who he “served”.

Fred love Carolina Tarheels Basketball and was an avid bowler, scoring tow perfect 300 games in league play. He love music and was a devoted reader.

He leaves behind a legacy of love through his children: Brittany Martin-Parrish (Justin) of the home (Brittany's mother, Patricia Foddrell); Angela Minton of Texas; and Brian “Tate” Martin (Kim) of Georgia (Angela's and Tate's mother, Dorothy Martin). He will will be deeply missed by his grandchildren; Adyn Parrish, Addy Parrish, Myles Minton, Angel Garrison, Donald Hairston, Tory Martin, Tyler Martin-Pennington and Leasia Martin; and his great-grandchildren; Mahari Minton, Carter Grey Minton, Christian Garrison and Charleigh Garrison. He was cherished by a host of niece and nephews.

The family wishes to express special gratitude to Fred's dedicated friends and companion, Mary Ann Hairston, for her unwavering support and love.

Fred's life was a testament of his strength of character, courage and the enduring power of faith. His legacy of kindness and strength will forever be echoed in the hearts of all that loved him.