Ernest Lee Martin, 87, of Buena Vista, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026. 

He was born Feb. 7, 1939, in Rockbridge County, to the late Hayden Ernest Martin and Emma Douglas Martin.       

Ernest was also preceded in death by grandson, Victor Clark, three brothers, and four sisters.

Ernest served in the U.S. Army and retired from Burlington Industries.

Surviving are his wife, Gloria Martin; children, Leatrice Martin, Mickey Banch (Stephanie), Rock Martin (Lisa), and Eric Martin (Karen); grandchildren, Antione Martin, Stormie Johnson, and Vincent Branch-Clark; multiple nieces and nephews; and special friends, Georgie Fields, Marylee Huffman, Donnie Shafer, Robin, Jenny, Brandy, Robert, Mary, Marty, Larry, and Patty and husband.

A funeral will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at Bolling, Grose & Lotts Funeral Chapel by Pastor Rachel Jones. Burial will follow at Rockbridge Memorial Gardens. 

Family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at Bolling, Grose and Lotts Funeral Home.

Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.