Martin Calvin Yarbrough, Sr.

Obituary For Martin Calvin Yarbrough, Sr.

Martin Calvin Yarbrough, Sr.

Martin Calvin Yarbrough, Sr. was an exceptionally bright, curious, and inquisitive young man whose love for learning became evident at an early age. From his years at Sam E. Hill Primary School through his studies at Knoxville College, he consistently excelled academically and demonstrated an extraordinary intellect. He possessed an insatiable desire to understand the world around him and developed a remarkable command of language, science, history, and countless other subjects. Those who knew him recognized that education was never merely about earning grades—it was about pursuing wisdom, truth, and understanding. These qualities would remain hallmarks of his character throughout his life.

Martin’s greatest education, however, came through the Word of God. As a young boy residing at the John Tarleton Children’s Home in Knoxville, Tennessee, he was faithfully taught the Holy Scriptures. It was there that he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior, beginning a lifelong journey of faith that would shape every decision he made. His relationship with Christ became the foundation of his life, and he joyfully shared the Gospel wherever God placed him. After relocating to Southern California, Martin became a devoted and faithful member of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Pomona, California. He faithfully served on the church’s Evangelism Ministry, regularly inviting others to worship, providing transportation to those who lacked it, and lovingly encouraging countless individuals to place their faith in Jesus Christ. His greatest desire was that others would know the saving grace of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

In 1955, Martin proudly enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. While serving as a Medical Technician and Coroner’s Assistant, he assisted in performing more than 2,000 autopsies. This unique experience gave him an extraordinary understanding of human anatomy and medicine that remained with him throughout his life. Family and friends affectionately referred to him as the family’s “doctor” because of his remarkable ability to recognize illnesses and understand medical conditions, often correctly diagnosing his own health concerns long before receiving confirmation from physicians. Following his honorable military service, Martin built a successful career at Oak Ridge, Abbott Labs, Hughes Aircraft and Horace Mann companies, where his dedication and work ethic became evident to everyone around him. Even while commuting more than 170 miles each day for over five years, he never complained about the sacrifice because providing for his family was one of his greatest joys and responsibilities.

In November 1961, Martin married the love of his life, Mattie Jean Madden, and together they built a loving home and raised four children: Martin Jr., Michelle, Michael, and Marshall. Though his work days were long and exhausting, he always made time for each of his children, carefully checking on their education, encouraging their growth, and making certain they understood the importance of learning and personal responsibility. Family meant everything to him. One of his favorite simple pleasures was sitting down to enjoy a bowl of pinto beans and cornbread while spending time with those he loved.

Martin possessed an extraordinary vocabulary and a wonderfully creative sense of humor that brought laughter to everyone around him. His witty expressions and clever wordplay became legendary within the family. One unforgettable example was his humorous warning for everyone to wash their hands so they wouldn’t catch “the Pneumococcai”—his own unforgettable twist on pneumococcal infections that could lead to pneumonia. His intelligence was matched only by his humility, kindness, and ability to make others smile.

Above every accomplishment, title, or earthly success stood Martin’s unwavering love for God. His life was wholly surrendered to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Every major decision was filtered through the truth of God’s Holy Word, and he faithfully sought to live according to the commands of Scripture—to love the Lord his God with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love his neighbor as himself. Through his faithful witness, compassionate service, and evangelistic heart, many were introduced to Jesus Christ and continue walking in the faith today. His legacy is not merely found in his children, grandchildren, relatives, or countless friends, but in the lives that were eternally changed because he pointed them to Christ. Martin Calvin Yarbrough, Sr was born to the late Augustus Yarbrough Sr. and Mildred Marshall-Yarbrough. He was a beloved brother to Augustus Yarbrough Jr., Jimmy Yarbrough, Barabara Yarbrough-Imes, Johnny Yarbrough, Jackie Johnson, Juliette Hamilton, Julius Johnson, and Judy Chesson. Martin was the last of his siblings to go to glory.

Martin Calvin Yarbrough, Sr. leaves behind the enduring legacy of a devoted husband, loving father, loving grandfather, cherished uncle, respected cousin, treasured in-law, faithful friend, honorable veteran, and above all, a humble servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. Though he has entered into the presence of his Savior, his faith, wisdom, love, and testimony continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23

To God alone be the glory, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen and amen.

There will be a Graveside Service on Friday, July 10, 2026 at the Tennessee Veterans Cemetery (Lyons View) at 1:00 p.m.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Unity Mortuary. www.unitymortuary1979.com

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